Extraction and characterization of a noble cellulose-rich cotton-like convoluted, lightweight and soft fiber from the floral part of the banana plant pseudo stem

Abstract

This research study examined a novel cellulose fiber extracted from the central part of the banana plant. The physical, chemical, and thermal properties, crystallography, and surface morphology analysis were studied to investigate their suitability in textiles and bio-based composite material applications. The physical analysis revealed the mean tensile strength as 81 ± 18.4 MPa, with a 0.643 ± 0.12 GPa tensile modulus and a linear density of 0.14 tex for the obtained fiber. The findings also demonstrate that these fibers possess unique properties such as lower density (1.10 g/cc) and, most particularly, high crimp (4–6 cp/mm). The existence of different basic components was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. The chemical analysis estimated the cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin percentages to be 65.92%, 17%, and 10%, respectively. The moisture regain of the fibers was 9.22%. Similar to cotton fibers, these fibers dissolved completely in a 60% H₂SO₄ solution. Thermogravimetric analysis establishes the thermal stability of the fiber up to 270 °C, making it viable for use in composite manufacturing. The crystallinity index of the fiber was 62.71% determined by X-ray diffraction. Scanning electron microscopy reveals the presence of natural convolution commonly found in cotton fiber. The study concludes that banana floral stem fibers could provide a sustainable alternative in various industrial applications, e.g., eco-friendly automotive interiors, sustainable insulation materials, and turning agricultural waste into valuable resources.

Graphical abstract