Properties and potential application of the selected natural fibers as limited life geotextiles

Environmental awareness and an increasing concern with sustainable development have stimulated many industries including ground engineering to replace the conventional synthetic fibers. In this work, four natural fibers, namely water hyacinth, reed, sisal, and roselle, were chosen for studies. Initially, the composition, morphology and properties of the four fibers were examined in order to select an appropriate fiber for manufacture of woven limited life geotextiles (LLGs). It was found that total cellulose content of sisal and roselle was higher than that of water hyacinth and reed, in contrast to hemicelluloses content. The highest lignin content was found in reed whereas water hyacinth possessed the highest ash content. Morphology and fiber length of the fibers were determined using optical microscope. The results showed that there was a positive correlation between tensile strength and fiber length; the longer fiber length, the higher tensile strength. Tensile strength of dry sisal, roselle was significantly higher than that of reed and water hyacinth, while elongation of all studied fibers with exception of water hyacinth was not significantly different. Moreover, it is interesting to note that when the fibers are wet, their tensile strength and elongation increase. Their moisture absorption and thermal property were also investigated. Finally, durability of the fibers was assessed in terms of mechanical properties after exposed under an accelerated weathering. From all obtained results, it can be concluded that sisal and roselle showed potential as raw materials for woven LLGs for soil reinforcement while the woven LLGs made of reed and water hyacinth would be suitable for soil erosion control.