Investigation on mechanical and chemical properties of mechanically extracted banana fibre in pseudostem layers: From Sri Lankan banana (Musa) cultivation waste

Abstract

This research investigates the factor influencing the quality of the fibre inside the banana pseudostem to determine which layers are suitable for delivering fine banana fibre. This research identifies the banana pseudostem layer-wise properties. Puwalu and Ambun fibres were obtained from the Kurunagala district in Sri Lanka. Banana fibres were separated from pseudostem by using a decorticator machine. Scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR) and universal tensile tester machine were used for the testing. The test results showed that the middle layers of the pseudostem to be the finest and strong. The lignin contains in the middle layer of fibre was lower than that of the first layer of fibres. The linear density of the ambun middle layer is 25 tex, the average diameter value is 80 µm and range of single fibre strength is 273–270 gf. Linear density of the puwalu middle layer is 29 tex, the diameter value was varying in between 98 and 100 µm and range of single fibre strength is 270–271 gf. The findings of this research will help anybody to select a suitable layer of Sri Lankan banana cultivars fibres based on physical and chemical properties. Then, these fine fibres can be a bridge over the extensive gap between natural cellulose substitute fibre demand.