Banana viscose

Banana fibre is one of the oldest natural textile materials and has a long tradition of use in the textile industry. While traditional banana fibre is obtained mechanically from the pseudostem of the banana plant, banana viscose is a modern form of regenerated cellulose produced through chemical processing of banana pulp. This material combines a natural origin with advanced manufacturing technologies. History of banana fibres Traditional use in Asia The history of banana fibre dates back to the 13th century in Japan, where the traditional fabric known as bashōfu was developed. The word literally means “banana fibre fabric” and became an important part of Okinawan culture. Japan has been processing banana fibres for around 800 years, achieving a high level of craftsmanship. The finest fibres were historically used for formal clothing, including garments worn by samurai and traditional kimonos. Filipino traditions In the Philippines, banana fibres from abacá (Musa textilis, also known as Manila hemp) have been used for centuries to produce textiles, ropes, and maritime products. This non-fruit-bearing banana variety is cultivated specifically for fibre production. Global spread Today, banana fibre is used in countries such as India, the Philippines, Ecuador, Japan, and Nepal. India is currently the largest banana producer in the world, generating large amounts of pseudostems suitable for fibre extraction. Extraction of banana fibres Raw material Banana fibres are obtained from the pseudostem (false stem) of the banana plant (Musa acuminata, Musa sapientum), which is normally discarded after fruit harvesting. The pseudostem consists of tightly packed leaf sheaths and contains long fibres suitable for textile use. Mechanical extraction (decortication) The most common method includes: Decortication: removing outer layers of the pseudostem Separation: isolating fibres from pulp by crushing and scraping Cleaning: washing away impurities and plant residues Drying: sun-drying or controlled drying conditions Biological extraction Modern research uses enzymatic treatment (e.g., Aspergillus niger enzymes). This method improves fibre quality and can increase tensile strength by around 40% compared to mechanical extraction. Chemical extraction (viscose production) Banana viscose is produced similarly to standard viscose: cellulose extraction using acid and alkali treatment chemical dissolution into a viscous solution regeneration of fibres through spinning processes Properties of banana fibre Fibre length: 1–5 m Diameter: 80–250 μm Very high tensile strength (up to 15× stronger than cotton) Good moisture absorption and release Natural sheen (silk-like appearance) Fully biodegradable and environmentally friendly Use in the textile industry: Traditional uses Clothing (kimono, shirts, dresses, summer garments) Home textiles (carpets, mats, cushions, curtains) Ropes, nets, geotextiles Specialty products (filters, paper, tea bags) Modern applications Composite materials and bioplastics reinforcement Nonwoven hygiene products Blended yarns with cotton, viscose or Tencel Eco-friendly technical textiles Environmental benefits Banana fibre is considered highly sustainable because it: uses agricultural waste (pseudostems) reduces environmental load provides additional income for farmers supports circular and sustainable production systems