Vol.
4 Issue- 1, September 2023 (e-ISSN: 2582-8223)
ARTICLE ID: 04
HARNESSING BANANA FIBER: AN ECO-FRIENDLY
APPROACH TO SUSTAINABILITY
Aastha Kushwaha1 and Neha2
1-Student and 2- Assistant Professor, Teerthanker Mahaveer University, Moradabad,
Uttar Pradesh, India
INTRODUCTION:
In recent times, fibrous materials have garnered substantial traction across an array of
technological domains, with the automotive sector prominently positioned among them. Of
specific interest are natural fibers, distinguished by their advantageous attributes
encompassing cost-effectiveness, ample availability, biocompatibility, and biodegradability.
These innate characteristics have vigorously stimulated comprehensive global research
initiatives, diligently directed towards the exploration of their potential cross-industrial
applications. Among all natural fibers, banana fibers emerge as particularly remarkable. They
present prospective pathways for diverse employment opportunities, spanning the spectrum
from woven fabric production and artisanal paper crafting to rope fabrication. Through the
repurposing of banana stems, which would otherwise be relegated to waste, enterprises
procure these stems from cultivators. This practice concurrently endows agricultural
practitioners with supplementary income sources, fostering socio-economic sustainability in
tandem with innovative material utilization.
This concerted fusion of sustainable resource management and advanced material
applications not only aligns with contemporary demands for eco-conscious solutions but also
exemplifies the symbiotic relationship between technological advancement and
environmental preservation. Consequently, the integration of natural fibers, such as banana
fibers, into multifaceted industrial pursuits accentuates the dynamic interplay between
scientific progress and sustainable practice, heralding a progressive trajectory towards a more
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harmonious coexistence of technology and nature.
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Vol. 4 Issue- 1, September 2023 (e-ISSN: 2582-8223)
CHARACTERISTICS OF BANANA FIBERS:
Banana fiber, known as Moussa fiber in some circles, is classified as a natural
lignocellulosic fiber derived from the pseudostem of the banana plant i.e. Musa sepientum.
This plant-based fiber boasts commendable mechanical properties, making it a favorable
choice. The banana plant, a sizable perennial herbaceous species, produces pseudostems from
overlapping leaf sheaths. Characterized by an average height ranging between 3.0 to 12.5
meters, the plant typically presents around 10 to 12 substantial leaves.
The inherent characteristics of banana fibers encompass a tenacity of approximately
29.98 g/denier, indicating a notable strength attribute. The moisture regains capability stands
at 13.00%, signifying its capacity to absorb and retain moisture. The overall cellulose content
reaches a level of 81.80%, highlighting the dominance of this organic compound within the
fibers. Additionally, a residual gum presence of 41.90% underscores the remnants of natural
components. Furthermore, the lignin content is estimated to be around 15.00%, further
delineating the fiber's composition. In addition, the banana fiber exhibits an average tensile
strength of approximately 2400 Newton Meters (NM).
BANANA CULTIVATION, PRODUCTION AND POTENTIAL:
According to MUSA (2017) banana cultivation spans across more than 120 nations
within tropical and subtropical zones globally. The foremost banana-producing countries,
comprising India, Uganda, Ecuador, Brazil, Colombia, Philippines, China, Indonesia,
Democratic Republic of Congo, and Costa Rica, collectively account for a substantial portion
of global output. Notably, India leads as the world's preeminent banana producer,
contributing approximately 17% to the total. With an annual yield estimated at 13.5 million
tons, India underscores its status as a dominant force in global banana production. Banana, a
tropical crop, finds cultivation across approximately 186,000 hectares of land, yielding
around 750,000 metric tons of fiber annually. Within the Indian context, the banana is grown
expansively, occupying 565,000 hectares. Prominent banana-producing states encompass
Maharashtra (54,000 hectares), Gujarat (49,000 hectares), Tamil Nadu (82,000 hectares),
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Andhra Pradesh (56,000 hectares), Karnataka (42,000 hectares), and Kerala (59,000
hectares).
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Vol. 4 Issue- 1, September 2023 (e-ISSN: 2582-8223)
Following the fruit harvest, the pseudostem or trunk of the banana plant is frequently
relegated to agricultural waste on a considerable scale. Furthermore, the utilization of these
pseudostems presents a promising avenue for banana fiber production, as the outer sheath of
the pseudostem holds the potential to yield approximately 1.5 million tons of dry banana
fibers each year. As the demand for bananas escalates in both domestic and global markets, a
corresponding augmentation in cultivation and production is anticipated in the forthcoming
years. Consequently, this growth trajectory will inevitably lead to an amplified accumulation
of pseudostem biomass waste.
METHODS OF EXTRACTION:
The subsequent stages encompassed within the procedure of producing banana fabric are as
follows:
Step 1: Separation
Initially, the filaments derived from the banana stems and peels are meticulously segregated
from their inoperative segments. These fibrous components can be acquired through an array
of techniques, encompassing the immersion of the peels in either a chemical solution or
water, thereby inducing softening and subsequent disengagement of the fibrous entities.
Step 2: Drying and bundling
Upon the completion of fiber isolation, said fibers will be meticulously assembled into
bundles and subjected to a desiccation process. Subsequent to this phase, the integration of
outer and inner fibrous elements is maintained, as their demarcation is notably more
challenging prior to moisture introduction, necessitating wet conditions for effective
separation.
Step 3: Grading
Once fully dried, the fibers undergo a classification process into distinct categories
determined by their quality. The finest textiles, belonging to category A, find application
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predominantly in sericulture. While certain manufacturers maintain only a limited number of
categorizations, others yield a multitude of grades for banana fibers.
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Vol. 4 Issue- 1, September 2023 (e-ISSN: 2582-8223)
Step 4: Spinning and Weaving
Subsequently, the isolated fibers undergo the process of yarn spinning. This yarn is
subsequently subjected to weaving, resulting in the production of various items such as
accessories, apparel, domestic articles, and industrial commodities. Following this, the
materials undergo coloring and additional processing steps. The extension of this
methodology to a larger operational scope presents increased complexity owing to its
historical manual execution.
TYPES OF BANANA FIBRE:
Banana fibers are predominantly present in two discrete morphological
configurations: the exocarp and endocarp. Nevertheless, novel composite materials emerge
through their amalgamation with assorted natural fibers. These comprise the four preeminent
typologies:
Outer peel banana fibre: Across successive generations, manufacturers have harnessed this
coarse and robust fiber as a foundational material. It has found utility in the fabrication of
multifarious products including but not limited to ropes, mats, as well as voluminous
garments and outerwear.
Inner peel banana fibre: The inner peel fiber derived from bananas exhibits a notably plush
and sericin-like textural quality. The manufacturing process entails substantial expenses and
imparts fragility to the resultant material.
Banana silk: This textile does not constitute a composite of banana fiber and silk; rather, it
designates an alternative nomenclature for the fiber inherent to the inner peel of bananas.
Said fiber possesses attributes commensurate with those characteristic of silk.
Banana cotton: Banana cotton serves as a synonymous descriptor for the premium-grade
substance derived from the external integument of bananas. Its tactile attributes bear
semblance to those of conventional cotton, with a confluence of several shared characteristics
between the two.
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Vol. 4 Issue- 1, September 2023 (e-ISSN: 2582-8223)
VERSATILE APPLICATIONS OF BANANA FABRIC:
Textile enterprise: Banana fibers find extensive application in the textile industry for
crafting clothing, accessories, and domestic textiles. The inherent qualities of these fibers,
including their intrinsic softness, remarkable flexibility, and exceptional moisture absorption
attributes, render them highly suitable for employment in attire and bedding. Moreover, these
fibers are commonly harnessed in the creation of decorative textile items such as tablecloth
runners and placemats.
Industrial Uses: Owing to their robustness and high tensile strength, these fibers are
extensively utilized within industrial contexts. They serve as a prominent raw material in the
paper manufacturing process, contribute to the fabrication of cords, strings, and mats, and
function as reinforcement agents for concrete structures.
Agriculture: In the realm of agriculture, these fibers are harnessed to generate compost and
mulch, offering an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fibers. Their utilization aids in
fostering optimal plant development through the regulation of both soil moisture content and
temperature dynamics.
Medical Applications: By virtue of its inherent antibacterial attributes, this material proves
highly advantageous for integration within medical and hygiene-oriented domains. Its
prevalent implementation involves the fabrication of medical textiles such as surgical masks
and gowns, capitalizing on its innate qualities to mitigate microbial proliferation effectively.
Automotive Industry: Banana fiber finds application within the automotive sector as a
sustainable and lightweight substitute for synthetic fibers in the manufacturing of automobile
parts and components.
Packaging material: Within the packaging sector, these fibers are employed to craft
packaging materials that align with biodegradability and sustainability principles.
Additionally, they are utilized in the creation of diverse packaging items such as bags,
containers, and various packaging products.
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Art and Crafts: The artistic realm benefits from the utilization of banana fibers in creative
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endeavors, owing to their intrinsic aesthetic appeal and distinct textural qualities. These fibers
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Vol. 4 Issue- 1, September 2023 (e-ISSN: 2582-8223)
frequently find application in the crafting of decorative objects such as baskets, coasters, and
various ornamental artifacts.
Menstrual pads: The program instigated by the International Institute of Environment and
Development entails instructing women within the African context, specifically in Rwanda,
on the methodologies for crafting cost-effective and ecologically viable sanitary napkins
through the utilization of banana fibers.
CHALLENGES ON THE PATH TO BANANA FIBER SUSTAINABILITY:
On the journey towards achieving sustainability in banana fiber production, there are
a number of obstacles that need to be addressed. Despite the promising advantages associated
with banana fiber, there are several noteworthy challenges that necessitate attention. The
process of extracting the fiber itself can be quite labor-intensive, relying heavily on manual
expertise. As industries' demands continue to grow, striking a balance between meeting these
demands and maintaining cost-effectiveness presents a considerable hurdle. To conquer these
barriers, it will be imperative to introduce innovative extraction technologies and refine
processing methods.
Moreover, it is imperative to take into account the environmental repercussions linked
to banana cultivation. While pursuing the benefits of banana fiber, it is equally vital to ensure
that the farming practices employed are sustainable. This involves a reduction in the
utilization of pesticides, along with the adoption of responsible water management
techniques. The amalgamation of these eco-conscious farming practices will play a pivotal
role in upholding the overall ecological integrity of banana fiber production. In order to
secure a successful and sustainable future for banana fiber, a comprehensive approach
addressing these challenges must be embraced. By integrating technological advancements,
improving cultivation methods, and emphasizing environmentally friendly practices, the path
to banana fiber sustainability can be navigated effectively.
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Vol. 4 Issue- 1, September 2023 (e-ISSN: 2582-8223)
A GLIMPSE INTO THE FUTURE:
In an era where our every choice casts an environmental impact, the emergence of
banana fiber sparks a beacon of optimism. This remarkably adaptable material holds the
potential to instigate revolutionary changes across various domains of our lives. By providing
eco-conscious textiles, it stands poised to completely reshape the landscape of the fashion
industry. Moreover, its utility extends to combating the predicament of plastic pollution
through inventive packaging alternatives. As technology continues its relentless advancement
and our awareness of ecological concerns deepens, it is conceivable that a future might
emerge wherein banana fiber plays a central and indispensable role in our ongoing efforts to
foster a more environmentally sustainable planet. This renewable and eco-friendly resource
possesses the dual attributes of reduced environmental footprint and inherent
biodegradability. These qualities harmoniously align with the core tenets of a circular
economy, thus presenting a formidable instrument in our array of tools for safeguarding the
environment.
CONCLUSION:
The utilization of banana fibers represents a notable convergence of sustainable
innovation, ecological awareness, and adaptable applications across a spectrum of industries.
The intrinsic characteristics of banana fibers, encompassing their commendable tensile
strength, moisture absorption capabilities, and biodegradability, underscore their capacity as a
valuable substitute for traditional synthetic fibers. Scientific progress and indigenous wisdom
transformed banana pseudostems into valuable resources with manifold industrial,
commercial, and environmental advantages. Despite challenges like moisture absorption and
flame retardance, continuous research can enhance their utility.
Educating farmers and craftsmen ensures a steady supply of quality resources. Government-
initiated incentives and regulatory paradigms that facilitate the propagation of banana
cultivation and the harnessing of their fibrous derivatives can exert added impetus upon the
advancement of this nascent sector. This journey embodies sustainable development, circular
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economy, and nature-tech synergy. Through unwavering dedication, scientific rigor, and
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collaborative efforts, banana fibers have the potential to establish a significant presence in the
worldwide realm of eco-friendly materials, ushering in a new era of sustainable innovation.
REFERENCES:
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