Abstract
In this work, the lignocellulosic fibers from the plant Thespesia lampas were extracted and investigated
in detail. The prime objective of this work was to study the effect of alkali treatment on the chemical
composition, tensile properties, morphological and structural changes, and thermal degradation of
Thespesia lampas fibers. Chemical analysis, FT-IR, and 13C CP-MAS NMR spectroscopic studies
indicated lowering of amorphous hemicellulose content on alkali treatment. Wide-angle X-ray diffraction studies indicated increase in crystallinity of the fibers on alkali treatment. The tensile strength
and modulus of the fibers and thermal stability increased on alkali treatment. Scanning electron micrographs revealed roughening of the surface of the fibers due to the removal of the hemicellulose layer on alkali treatment. Tensile properties of Thespesia fibers were compared to those of other important natural fibers, and it was indicated as an alternative suitable source for composite construction.