A MICROSCOPIC STUDY OF THE MORPHOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF NATURAL AND RECYCLED FIBERS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF COMPOSITE INSULATION MATERIALS

Abstract

The utilization of agricultural and recycled waste materials for sustainable composite development has gained significant attention in recent years. In this study, a hybrid composite reinforced with banana fibers and recycled fibers was developed and analyzed by microscopic for their suitability to incorporate in composites. Banana fibers were extracted from banana pseudo stems, while recycled fibers were obtained from textile spinning waste. Both fiber types were cleaned, processed, and incorporated into a composite system for analysis. Microscopic analysis was performed to investigate fiber distribution, surface morphology, interfacial bonding, and internal structural arrangement within the composite. The observations revealed that banana fibers exhibited rough and irregular surfaces with longitudinal grooves and fibrillar structures, while recycled fibers contributed to a heterogeneous but compact arrangement within the matrix. Improved fiber–matrix interaction was observed due to the surface roughness of both fiber types, which enhanced mechanical interlocking. The presence of micro-voids and porous regions was also identified within the composite structure. These morphological features suggest that the hybrid composite possesses reduced density and improved thermal insulation potential. The study indicates that the combination of banana and recycled fibers can be effectively utilized in sustainable composite development. The findings further demonstrate that agricultural and recycled waste materials can serve as viable alternatives to synthetic reinforcements. Microscopic evaluation provides essential insights into fiber compatibility and structural behavior, which are important for optimizing composite performance in future engineering and construction applications.