Surface and moisture characteristics of jute using a D.C. glow discharge argon plasma

ABSTRACT

A D.C. glow discharge plasma source was employed to characterize changes in water absorbance and surface morphology of natural jute fibers. The low temperature plasma removed moisture from the fibers and significantly modified surface properties. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used for characterization. Open source software was used for the processing of the scanning electron micrographs. The changes in the macromolecular structure and the crystallinity were characterized by X-ray diffraction. Thermogravimetric analysis demonstrated moisture removal from the fibers following plasma treatment.

KEYWORDS:

• D.C. glow discharge plasma
• jute
• scanning electron microscopy

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to acknowledge the Chancellor, Vice-President, Assistant Vice-President, and Pro-Vice-Chancellor of VIT University Chennai for encouragement and laboratory support to carry out the research.