Optimization of banana fiber treatment parameters for improved textile performance

This study investigates banana fibers, manually extracted from indigenous species grown in the Tekeze area of the Tigray region, Ethiopia, as a sustainable alternative to synthetic fibers. The effects of alkali treatment—using sodium hydroxide (NaOH) concentrations from 0.1 M to 0.5 M, treatment durations from 30 min to 90 min, and temperatures from 40 °C to 80 °C—were examined on banana fiber properties such as elongation, tenacity, water absorption, and fineness. Twenty-seven experimental samples, each weighing 5 g and measuring 1000 mm in length, were treated in a microwave oven. ANOVA revealed that NaOH concentration and temperature significantly influenced fiber characteristics. Optimization using multi-response surface methodology identified ideal treatment conditions: 0.31 M NaOH, 74.8 min, and 61.01 °C. Under these conditions, the treated fibers exhibited 2.37% elongation, 29.54 cN/tex tenacity, 372.94% water absorption, and 9.82 tex fineness. These optimized fibers demonstrated properties comparable to those of conventional textile fibers, including cotton, with enhanced fineness and a balanced combination of strength and flexibility. Notably, the reduced water absorption achieved through optimization is advantageous for water-repellent applications. This study confirms that precise control of alkali treatment parameters can effectively enhance banana fiber properties, making them a promising and sustainable alternative to cotton in various textile applications.