Extraction and Characterisation of Fibres from Underutilized Resources and its application in Textiles

Abstract

Locally sustainable new natural fibers are always a positive step toward a better newlinesocio-economic environment. The basic aim of this research was to identify such newlinepotential plant sources from locally (Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India) grown crops and newlinetheir appropriate application in textiles. Locally available Soybean and Okra crop newlineharvest waste was initially identified as plant sources for fiber production. The study newlinehas revealed that fiber can be extracted from both the plant crop wastes. Only Okra newlineplant harvest waste can be utilized for commercial fiber production. The present newlineresearch optimized the extraction of Okra fiber. Okra plant of 120 days lifespan was newlinefound most suitable for commercial fiber extraction in running water retting medium newlinebetween 17-25 days of retting duration. The quality of Okra fiber was found better or newlineequivalent to Jute fiber except its fiber fineness. Pure Okra yarn (first in the world) newlineand its blends with Jute and Cotton fiber further added new possibilities in textiles. newlinePreliminary study on Okra fiber applications like woven fabric proved its commercial newlineapplication in textiles both in conventional and technical textiles. newline