Tensile Strength Variation Among Abaca (Musa textilis Née) Cultivars in Aklan, Province, Philippines

Abaca (Musa textilis Née), also known as Manila hemp, is a vital natural fiber-producing plant in the Philippines, mainly cultivated for its highly durable fibers. Five locally described Abaca cultivars found in Aklan province: Bisaya, Agbayanon, Tabukanon, Totoo, and Negro, which are widely cultivated for fiber production. However, limited research has been conducted to classify their fiber grades, lack comprehensive characterization, and comparison of fiber tensile strength between pseudostem layers (inner and outer) and across cultivars. This hinders the full utilization of Abaca fibers and guides for cultivar-specific production that produces high-quality Abaca fibers. This study investigated the tensile strength of Abaca cultivars in Aklan using one-way ANOVA and other statistical tests to confirm differences within the group. Results showed Agbayanon, Bisaya, and Tabukanon produced S3 (outer) and S2 (inner), while Totoo also produces an S2 (outer) and EF fiber (inner). In contrast, Negro provides JK fiber grade for both layers. Among cultivars, Totoo demonstrated the lowest values in gram force (outer = 2,714; inner = 2,858), but high tensile strength in terms of MPa (outer = 848; inner = 892) and kilogram force (outer = 57.52; inner = 60.65), the only fiber/cultivar exceeding PNS standards (35 to 55 kg/g.m) recommended for fiber production and textile. In contrast, Negro showed high gram force (outer = 7782; inner = 4121) but was weakest in MPa (outer = 389; inner = 206), suited for industrial applications. Meanwhile, Agbayanon had the gram force (outer = 7,888; inner = 6,437) and ranked second in MPa (outer = 616; inner = 503), suited for versatile applications. Bisaya and Tabukanon, on the other hand, demonstrated consistent mid-to-high tensile values suitable for moderate strength processing. The study's findings provide valuable information for developing cultivar-specific production policies that encourage farmers, producers, and stakeholders to plant cultivars that produce high-value and export-quality Abaca fibers that meet the Philippine National Standards.