Sustainable use of the pseudostem and rachis of banana Musa sp.

Abstract

Currently, plastics are the most diversified materials with the highest volumes of consumption worldwide, reinforced with synthetic fibers. However, the environmental repercussions related to the accumulation of plastics have led to the search for alternatives that allow the establishment of a development attached to sustainability. Around the world, various research is being carried out with the aim of taking advantage of the use of natural fibers as a substitute for plastics. The objective was to establish sustainable techniques for the processing and staining of banana rachis and pseudostem fiber in order to diversify its use. It was found that solar dehydration allows fibers to be obtained with better characteristics than in an electric dryer. The dried fibers are useful for making various handicraft items with decorative, cultural and agricultural uses, compostable. The dyeing of the fibrous pieces was achieved using natural sources. The use of these techniques for the use of by-products of banana production will allow local artisans to have processes that allow them to improve their production and take advantage of the by-products of the environment while being environmentally friendly, which will have an impact on the development of communities dedicated to the elaboration of traditional handicrafts.

DOI:https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2024.004-019