Characterization of Natural Fibers Extracted from Banana Inflorescence Bracts

Abstract

Banana silk, a fiber extracted from the pseudo-stem of banana plant, is used widely for various applications. Same way, the bracts of banana inflorescence contains substantial quantities of fibers, which could be used in various textile applications on account of its physical and chemical properties. The fibers are found to have high cellulose content of 56.48% and low wax content of 1.05%. The density of the extracted fibers is found to be 1.39 g/cc. The extracted fiber length ranged from about 22 to 33 cm with an average fiber length of 27.6 cm. Diameter of the fiber sample is found to be 79.6 µm. The fiber exhibited a mean breaking strength of 60.1 gf, tensile strength of 178.17 Mpa, and a mean breaking elongation of 20.9% and Young’s Modulus of 2.99 GPa. Thermo-gravimetric analysis showed that the fibers are stable up to 200°C, decomposes at 400°C and leaves a residual char content to the extent of 15.48% at about 800°C. Based on the properties, the banana inflorescence bract fibers could be used as a substitute for synthetic fibers in making non-wovens and textile composites.

Keywords

• agro-waste
• banana bract
• biodegradable
• lignocellulosic fiber
• natural fiber
• sustainability