A new method of sample preparation for kenaf past fiber length analysis with automated fiber length analyzer

Kenaf bast fiber bundles alternate radially in layers accompanied by sieve elements and phloem parenchyma cells. Fiber bundles are about 20 % in the a rea of a cross section of kenaf bast. Four sample preparation methods for k enaf bast fiber length analysis with an automated fiber length analyzer wer e compared and a new sample preparation method including three steps was pr oven to be accurate. Fiber bundles were obtained by acidified sodium chlori te treatment and an additional ammonium oxalate treatment. Following a 1% s odium hydroxide treatment, fiber bundles were completely separated into sin gle fibers with no damage. Fiber length values of this method were more acc urate and reliable than other three sample preparation methods and manual m easurement with optical microscope.