Corn leaf fibers preparation and characterization for composite obtention

Abstract

There is a global trend in seeking plant fibers to replace the synthetic fibers to obtain reinforced composites, aiming the use of renewable resources. In this context, this paper objective is to develop the process of corn leaf fibers preparations , characterize and adapt them for applications in the construction industry. Corn leaves were dried in room temperature, treated by mercerising (chemical process of attack on the fiber surface making it rough); then neutralized with acid solution and washed in running water. The characterization of the corn leaf fibers was performed by X-ray diffraction, X-ray fluorescence Spectrometry, Scanning Electron Microscopy, Thermogravimetry, specific mass and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry. The mercerizing treatment was effective, because the corn fibers have similar characteristics to synthetic fibers, leading to a possibility of new technological uses, besides the application in gas pipe manufacturing.