Tenacity, Fineness and Ultimate Fiber Recovery of Abaca Fiber Strands

Because of its exceptional strength Abaca fiber (Musa textilis Nee) is a potential reinforcing material for composite production. The intention of this study is to evaluate major factors influencing the quality of abaca fiber strands depending on variety and placement within the plant. The aim is to draw attention to criteria for the choice of variety and for a proper selection of the extracted fiber strands with respect to the intended application. Fineness, strength and cleanness of abaca fiber strands from four abaca varieties, Laylay, Inosa, Linawaan and Sinamok at different lateral location across and longitudinal positions along the stalk have been evaluated. The study was based on a factorial design of experiments and the results have been tested for statistical significance. Regarding fineness, variety is the dominating factor. Linawaan has finer and more homogenous strands (26.0 tex) than the other varieties. The tenacity of the strands depends also on variety, Laylay showing the highest tenacity of about 77.3 cN/tex, however another main factor is the position along the stalk, with the strongest fibers found at the base. The cleanness of fiber strands as determined by the Ultimate Fiber Recovery method is not significantly influenced by the chosen factors. Regarding fiber composites, fine fibers with low linear density and high tenacity seem most promising. The statistical models allow for a numerical optimization, providing a measure for the desirability of factor combinations. If fineness is emphasized, Linawaan strands from the base position of the outer layers are the most desirable selection. If tenacity is higher rated, similarly located strands of Laylay are preferable.