Enhanced Thermal Performance of Alkali-Treated Bamboo, Coir, and Date Palm Fiber Composites for Solar Distillation Applications

This study investigates the thermal conductivity and moisture absorption characteristics of bamboo, coir, and date palm fiber composites, specifically examining their suitability for use in solar distillation applications. Four composite samples comprising alkali-treated bamboo and coir fiber (sample 1), untreated bamboo and coir fiber (sample 2), treated coir and date palm fiber (sample 3), and untreated coir and date palm fiber (sample 4) have been experimentally analyzed. Samples 1 and 3 showed 17.6 and 16.6% lower thermal conductivities and 45.8 and 44.2% lower moisture absorptions than untreated samples 2 and 4. Alkali-treated fibers had decreased lignin and hemicellulose and more cellulose, supporting the observed benefits after chemical analysis. Post-alkali scanning electron microscopy showed improved fiber surface morphology, highlighting cellulose energy-saving significance. The results indicate that these composites, due to their improved thermal insulation characteristics, provide a sustainable choice for integration into solar distillation systems.