Development of water-resistant cotton fabric using chitosan and plant-based wax extracted from pineapple crowns

Purpose This study aims to develop a biodegradable, water-resistant coating for cotton fabric using wax from pineapple crown waste and chitosan as a natural binder. The goal was to improve fabric performance through an eco-friendly process while adding value to agricultural waste. Design/methodology/approach Wax was extracted from pineapple crown waste using hexane reflux extraction and emulsified with different chitosan ratios to form stable mixtures. These were applied to cotton fabric through a pad-dry-cure process. The treated fabrics were then tested for water resistance, color, surface morphology, tensile strength, air permeability and water vapor transmission properties. Findings Pineapple crown wax–chitosan emulsions significantly improved the water resistance of cotton fabrics, with the 50:50 chitosan-to-wax ratio achieving the highest contact angle of 142.4°, indicating strong hydrophobicity. Preliminary tests showed that the coating maintained its performance after 15 washing cycles. Scanning electron microscopy images revealed a uniform surface coating that reduced water permeability. Although air and water vapor permeability slightly decreased, the tensile strength remained within acceptable limits. Originality/value An eco-friendly textile coating was made from chitosan and wax extracted from pineapple crown leaves, a widely available agricultural waste. By using biodegradable materials, the coating provides a sustainable alternative to synthetic finishes, supporting environmental sustainability and promoting circular economy practices in the textile industry.