Research Article

MORPHOLOGICAL AND MECHANICAL CHARACTERISATION OF BANANA FIBRE AS INFLUENCED BY WATER RETTING DURATION FOR SUSTAINABLE TEXTILES

Suleiman A.1*, Isa, A. D.1, Shuaibu M.2
1 Department of Polymer and Textile Technology, College of Science and Technology, Kaduna Polytechnic, Kaduna.
2 Department of Computer Science, College of Science and Technology, Kaduna Polytechnic, Kaduna
* Corresponding author: asuleiman@kadunapolytechnic.edu.ng
Published: Aug, 2024
DOI: 10.67637/njt.2024.0sjj4fou
Pages: 47 - 54
Views: 58
Downloads: 104

Abstract

Banana fibre, extracted from the pseudostem of Musa species, offers a promising sustainable alternative for textile applications. This study examines the influence of water retting duration on fibre yield, tensile strength, and morphological properties to optimise processing for eco-friendly textile production. Banana sheaths were retted for 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 days. Fibre yield increased from 4.3% to 8.8% with extended retting, due to microbial breakdown of non-cellulosic components that facilitate fibre separation. However, tensile strength declined slightly from 7.50 to 7.32, suggesting that excessive retting may weaken fibre integrity. An optimal retting period of 6 – 8 days achieved a balance between high yield and mechanical strength. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed that the fibres have a cylindrical surface morphology, giving them a natural lustre similar to man-made fibres. The internal porosity supports superior dye uptake and moisture management, while minimal surface scaling allows smoother processing and better yarn uniformity. These findings demonstrate banana fibre’s potential as a viable raw material for sustainable fashion and technical textiles. The study recommends standardising retting protocols and exploring complementary fibre-enhancement techniques to improve commercial viability and consistency.

Keywords

Banana fibre retting duration tensile strength fibre morphology sustainable textiles SEM analysis

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How to Cite

A., S., D., I. A., & M., S. (2024). MORPHOLOGICAL AND MECHANICAL CHARACTERISATION OF BANANA FIBRE AS INFLUENCED BY WATER RETTING DURATION FOR SUSTAINABLE TEXTILES. Nigerian Journal of Textiles, 10(1), 47 - 54. https://doi.org/10.67637/njt.2024.0sjj4fou

S. A., I. A. D., and S. M., "MORPHOLOGICAL AND MECHANICAL CHARACTERISATION OF BANANA FIBRE AS INFLUENCED BY WATER RETTING DURATION FOR SUSTAINABLE TEXTILES," Nigerian Journal of Textiles, vol. 10, no. 1, pp. 47 - 54, August 2024. doi: 10.67637/njt.2024.0sjj4fou

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