Study on softening of banana Musa balbisiana pseudo stem fibre and evaluation of its physico chemical properties for textile application

Abstract

Promoting eco-friendly fashion and textile options is crucial for preserving resources and the environment. This involves addressing the carbon footprints from textile production. Even though there is abundance of agricultural waste and residues, they are often underutilized, despite being sustainable and environmentally friendly. Utilizing these materials can contribute to a more sustainable and responsible fashion industry. India, with its diverse soil and climate, has the potential to produce various natural fibres to meet the demand for textile and industrial products. Banana, a widely cultivated fruit crop, generates a significant amount of waste in the form of pseudo-stem, leaves, fruit peel, and inflorescence. Banana pseudo-stem, the stem of the banana plant, is usually discarded after harvest, resulting in environmental contamination. However, utilizing this waste for fibre extraction can benefit the environment and increase its economic value. Softening treatments can enhance its properties and make it suitable for apparel and home furnishings. Thus, keeping in view present study is an attempt to explore the softening effect of Banana (Musa balbisinia) psuedo-stem fibre with commercial grade and bio softener and evaluating its physical properties for textile application. newlineFor this present investigation, extraction of banana (Musa balbisiana) pseudo-stem was carried out by both water retting and mechanically extraction method and physical properties, colour measurement properties and surface characterization of both fibres were evaluated. Various efforts have been made for softening of water retted and mechanically extracted banana pseudo-stem fibre by commercial grade cationic softener (SaZeaux C-PS, SaZeaux CAT SOFT C-SPL) and bio softener (Castor oil) and evaluation of its physical properties and preparation of value-added product...