Synthesis

LITERATURE

Foreign

Banana fiber

The studies reviewed explore the utilization of banana stem fibers in various applications,

including skateboard production, textile materials, thermal insulation, and particleboard

composites. These studies highlight the versatility and potential of banana stem fibers as a

sustainable alternative to traditional materials.

The first study focuses on repurposing discarded banana stems for skateboard production

(Zulfikar & Siahaan, 2019). By using banana stem fibers as reinforcement in a composite

material, the researchers aimed to create a skateboard with improved flexural strength. The

study found that boards with 15% banana stem content exhibited the highest average flexural

strength of 27.20 MPa, indicating that this composition was ideal for the material.

Another study examines the potential uses of banana pseudo-stem fiber (Subagyo & Chafidz,

2020). The chapter discusses the various characteristics of banana pseudo-stem fiber, including

its morphology, mechanical properties, and chemical composition. It also explores a wide range

of applications for this fiber, such as textile materials, composites, rope, and paper cardboard.

In terms of thermal insulation properties, a study investigated the thermal characteristics of

banana fiber (Assis et al., 2015). The research examined the thermal diffusivity, specific heat

capacity, and thermal conductivity of banana fiber using photoacoustic spectroscopy and

photothermal methods. The findings indicated that banana fibers had promising potential as a

thermal insulator, comparable to traditional synthetic insulators.

incorporating banana stem fiber (Wang & Hu, 2016). The researchers found that adding banana

stem fiber to coir fiber composite boards improved the modulus of elasticity (MOE) and modulus

of rupture (MOR). However, it also reduced the internal bond strength (IB) and increased

thickness swelling due to water absorption. The study suggested that a ratio of 8:2 coir fiber to

banana stem fiber resulted in composite boards meeting dry condition standards.

In summary, these studies demonstrate the potential of banana stem fibers in various

applications. They showcase the utilization of banana stem fibers in skateboard production,

textile materials, thermal insulation, and particleboard composites. The findings highlight the

versatility, mechanical properties, and sustainability of banana stem fibers as a valuable

resource for innovative and environmentally friendly materials.

Pineapple fiber

The studies reviewed focus on the utilization of pineapple leaf fiber in the production of

particleboards and the potential of pineapple waste for various value-added products. These

studies highlight the sustainable and economic benefits of utilizing pineapple leaf fiber and

waste as alternative resources.

One study examined the use of pineapple leaves and oil palm empty fruit fibers in the

production of particleboards (Moya et al., 2014). The researchers analyzed the chemical and

anatomical compositions of the fibers and their impact on urea-formaldehyde adhesive. They

found that a combination of 50% pineapple leaf fiber and 50% sawdust from fast-growing

tropical species resulted in effective replacements for traditional wood-based particleboards.

particleboards (Jamaludin et al., 2013). The diffusion coefficient of water absorption, percentage

thickness swelling, and percentage thickness shrinking were assessed. The study found that

variations in particleboard thickness significantly influenced these properties, with thinner

particleboards exhibiting lower water absorption and higher thickness shrinking.

The potential of pineapple leaf fibers (PALFs) was explored in another study (Lee et al., 2020).

PALFs were found to possess high cellulose content, which enhances their strength properties.

The study highlighted various factors influencing PALF performance, including density,

diameter, surface morphology, and treatment methods. PALFs show promise as a sustainable

and cost-effective material in industries such as textiles, due to their strength, fire-retardant

properties, and potential for increased crystallinity.

Additionally, the management and utilization of pineapple waste, specifically pineapple leaves,

were investigated (Lee et al., 2020). The review discussed the potential of pineapple waste for

producing biorefinery and miscellaneous products. With its high cellulose content, pineapple

leaves have the potential to be used as a feedstock for bioethanol, oligosaccharides,

nitrocellulose, humic acid, and various other products such as pineapple leaf fibers, artificial

eyelashes, organic leather, pulp, and paper. The utilization of pineapple waste not only reduces

waste and greenhouse gas emissions but also supports the concept of "waste-to-wealth"

through the production of valuable goods.

In summary, the studies on pineapple leaf fiber and waste highlight their potential as sustainable

alternatives in various industries. The utilization of pineapple leaf fiber in particleboards

showcases its effectiveness as a replacement for traditional wood-based materials.

Furthermore, the potential of pineapple waste for producing a wide range of value-added
products demonstrates the economic and environmental benefits of utilizing this resource.

Overall, the findings support the concept of utilizing pineapple leaf fiber and waste as valuable

and eco-friendly materials.

Chipboard Production

The information provided discusses various aspects of chipboard production, including the

composition of the material, the use of different raw materials, and the development of improved

manufacturing techniques.

Chipboard, also known as particle board or low-density fiberboard, is produced by combining

small wood particles with epoxy glue and pressing them together under high heat and pressure.

The resulting board is widely used in applications such as furniture production and interior

finishing.

Oriented strand board (OSB) is a type of chipboard specifically designed as a structural

replacement for plywood. It is composed of larger strand elements compared to traditional

chipboard, and its production involves techniques such as image analysis to measure strand

orientation and improve the reliability and stability of engineered OSB.

The use of agricultural by-products, such as sugarcane bagasse, in chipboard production has

been explored in Brazil. Sugarcane bagasse has been used as a raw material for chipboard

panels, and tests have shown that panels made from sugarcane bagasse perform well, although

further improvements can be made.

Expanding the raw materials base for building materials production can involve utilizing soft-

wooded broadleaved species that are currently underutilized. These species have lower
strength compared to hardwood or pine, but special treatment with modifiers can enhance their

properties. Impregnated wood with a porous structure can exhibit improved technical properties,

making it suitable for manufacturing construction products.

Experimental studies have been conducted on treating broadleaved wood with the wood

preservative "Ksilostat," which has shown 100% efficiency in improving the biological stability of

the wood. These studies aim to develop technological solutions for producing woodchip boards

from broadleaved hardwood with improved biological stability, including the introduction of a

timber preservation production unit and wood chip drying.

In summary, chipboard production involves the combination of wood particles with glue under

high heat and pressure. The development of oriented strand board (OSB) has provided a

structural alternative to plywood. The use of agricultural by-products, such as sugarcane

bagasse, and the exploration of underutilized wood species in chipboard production offer

opportunities for sustainable and cost-effective manufacturing. The implementation of treatment

methods and the use of wood preservatives can enhance the properties of these materials,

expanding their potential applications in the construction industry.

Local

Banana Fiber

The information provided discusses the potential uses and applications of pineapple leaves and

banana stems as valuable byproducts in various industries.

Pineapple leaves (PL) are often left behind in fields or burned after harvest, contributing to

greenhouse gas emissions. However, the unique composition of PL waste presents

opportunities for producing renewable energy and valuable products. PL shows promise as a
feedstock for producing bioethanol, oligosaccharides, nitrocellulose, and humic acid.

Additionally, PL waste can be used to create pineapple leaf fibers, artificial eyelashes, organic

leather, pulp, and paper. The conversion of pineapple waste into these products reduces waste

and supports the concept of 'waste-to-wealth.'

Similarly, the banana industry in the Philippines generates a significant amount of waste from

banana fruit stalks. Researchers have found that the fibers from banana peduncles can be used

to produce boards suitable for thermal insulation and composite boards for construction

purposes. Natural fiber composites made from banana fibers are currently used in cabinets,

crates, floors, walls, and ceilings.

A study focused on the potential of banana pseudostems as a substitute material for producing

eco-friendly paper bags. The researchers processed the banana pseudostems by cutting them,

boiling them, and crushing them in a blender. The study found that the amount of banana

pseudostem used, the boiling time, and the amount of water used in the process influenced the

properties of the banana eco paper bags. The researchers concluded that banana pseudostems

could be a more affordable alternative to commercial eco-bags.

In the Philippines, Acrisol soils with high clay content are considered unsuitable for construction

due to their loose and soft nature. Engineers often employ soil stabilization techniques or

replace the unsuitable soil with suitable material. Banana stems, a byproduct of the banana

industry, offer potential as soil reinforcements to enhance mechanical properties. Chemical

treatments were used to improve the composition of banana fibers, and non-woven banana fiber

sheets bound with polyvinyl acetate were developed. Testing showed that treated banana fiber

reinforcements enhanced soil compressive strength, particularly when treated with Sodium

Lauryl Sulfate (SLS).

produce valuable products and reduce waste. Pineapple leaves can be used for bioethanol

production, fiber-based products, and other applications. Banana stems can be used for thermal

insulation, composite boards, eco-friendly paper bags, and soil reinforcement. These

applications demonstrate the potential for agricultural byproducts to contribute to a more

sustainable and circular economy.

Pineapple Fiber

The information provided highlights the significance of pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) as a superior

vegetable fiber, its role in climate restoration and soil quality, and its potential applications in

various industries. The chapter discusses pineapple cultivation practices, plant anatomy,

varieties, diseases, nutritional needs, and global production. It also covers post-harvest

operations, fiber extraction methods, fiber retting, finishing, chemical composition, and physico-

chemical properties of PALF.

The Philippines is one of the leading pineapple-producing countries, with a significant annual

production rate and a considerable amount of agricultural waste generated from pineapple

cultivation. Pineapple leaves are a particularly abundant byproduct rich in cellulose, making

them suitable for fiber extraction. The chapter mentions a specific study that focuses on

developing a composite material called Plymer, which combines dried pineapple leaves with

high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic chips. The Plymer composite contained 20%

pineapple leaves and 80% HDPE.

The study conducted tests, including tensile strength, static bending, and screw removal, to

evaluate the properties of the Plymer composite. The Department of Science and Technology-
Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) conducted these tests.

The researchers used statistical analysis to differentiate the test results. The study concluded

that Plymer exhibited excellent performance in static bending and tensile strength, making it a

preferred choice for these applications.

In summary, pineapple leaf fiber is highly regarded as a superior vegetable fiber with various

applications. The chapter provides insights into pineapple cultivation, the potential of PALF, and

a specific study on the development and testing of the Plymer composite. The utilization of

pineapple leaves in composite materials like Plymer demonstrates the potential for sustainable

and value-added products from agricultural waste.

Chipboard Production

Synthesis:

The research discussed in this information focuses on transforming wood chipboard, commonly

used in interior spaces, into a 100% bio-based product by eliminating toxic adhesives.

Traditional wood chipboard often contains petrochemical-based adhesives that pose risks to

human health and the environment. Previous research has explored the partial replacement of

these adhesives with bio-based alternatives but falls short of meeting the policy ambitions of

transitioning to a fully bio-based economy as outlined in the Green Deal.

To address this, the researchers collected logging residues from Latvian State Forests,

specifically biomass from Picea abies and Pinus sylvestris, including branches, needles, bark,

and various particles. These residues were systematically gathered within two months after

logging. A custom chipper and Vibrotehnik PM-120 hammer mill were used to separate the
particles into three fractions based on their size: <2.8 mm, 2.8-8 mm, and 8.0-10.0 mm. These

fractions were then combined with binders and hot-pressed to create board samples.

The results showed that by using solely bio-based carbon sources, particle boards with 100%

bio-based carbon were successfully produced. This achievement demonstrates the possibility of

completely eliminating petroleum-based adhesives from chipboard production. It also opens up

avenues for further research into exploring bio-based binders and the use of conifer bark in

chipboard production.

In summary, the research highlights the potential for transforming wood chipboard into a fully

bio-based product by replacing toxic petrochemical adhesives with bio-based alternatives. The

study successfully produced particle boards containing 100% bio-based carbon by utilizing

logging residues and appropriate particle size separation techniques. This research contributes

to the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives in the wood

chipboard industry.

STUDIES

Foreign

The information provided highlights various studies conducted on the utilization of banana and

pineapple plant components to develop value-added products and reduce waste. These studies

explore the extraction of fibers from banana pseudostems using decorticator machines, followed

by processes like retting and degumming. The resulting fibers have been successfully used to

produce a wide range of products such as ropes, nets, mats, paper sheets, textiles, bags, and

polymer/fiber composites.
The mechanical properties of composite materials reinforced with a combination of banana and

pineapple leaf fibers have also been investigated. These studies show that the incorporation of

these hybrid reinforced fibers, along with polyester resin, leads to significant improvements in

tensile and compressive strength.

In Malaysia, natural fibers, including those derived from banana and pineapple plants, are

considered essential agricultural resources with significant economic impact. They contribute to

ecological balance by reducing the strain on agriculture and forests. By recycling the waste

produced by agriculture and forestry through value-added processing, it is possible to reduce

the amount of waste generated.

Studies have also explored the production of particleboards using waste pineapple leaves and

recycled Styrofoam as adhesive. Factors such as the treatment of pineapple leaves with sodium

hydroxide, particle size, and the ratio of pineapple leaves to Styrofoam were modified to

evaluate the characteristics of the particleboards. The findings suggest that recycled Styrofoam

shows potential as a formaldehyde-based resin substitute, and the particleboards have

promising applications in insulation, filtration, and packaging.

Furthermore, research has been conducted on using pineapple leaf fiber, banana stem fiber,

and kenaf fiber as raw materials for paper production from recycled newspaper pulp. The

mechanical properties of the resulting papers were compared, with pineapple leaf fiber showing

the highest tensile and tearing strength.

Additionally, studies have investigated the fabrication and characterization of low-density

particleboards using banana pseudo-stem fibers and urea formaldehyde resin. The physical and

mechanical properties of these particleboards were influenced by parameters such as resin

particleboards can serve as cost-effective and technologically viable alternatives to conventional

wood-based particle boards.

In summary, these studies demonstrate the potential of banana and pineapple plant

components in developing sustainable and value-added products. The utilization of fibers from

these plants in various applications, including composites, paper, and particleboards, offers eco-

friendly alternatives while reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.

Local

The potential of banana fiber derived from the pseudo-stem for a range of industrial applications

has been investigated. Research highlights how environmentally benign banana fiber is and its

suitability for making chipboard. Banana fiber has been extensively used by organizations like

the Philippine Department of Science and Technology (DOST), particularly in the production of

masks as an alternative to single-use plastics. The DOST's Philippine Textile Research Institute

has been researching different types of natural textile fibers, including banana fiber, for

applications in apparel, accessories, furniture, and biomedical items. Recently, there has been a

focus on using banana fibers in construction and building materials to contribute to greener

buildings, cities, and communities.

Studies conducted in the Philippines have explored the application of pineapple leaf and banana

stem fiber in the production of chipboard and composite insulation boards. These fibers have

shown potential as a good fit for making chipboard and alternate materials for insulating boards.
Researchers have also examined the feasibility of fabricating sustainable face masks using

banana pseudo-stem fibers. The aim is to eliminate gaps in conventional face masks and

enhance their effectiveness against tiny particles, including the CoVid-19 virus.

The Philippine Textile Research Institute has explored the potential of banana fibers from

different cultivars for textile production, evaluating factors such as fiber yield, strength, fineness,

and suitability for textile applications. Banana fibers can be processed into yarns for applications

like hand knitting and carpets, although a degumming treatment process is necessary to

prepare the fibers for spinning.

The PTRI is actively studying technologies for extracting, treating, and processing pineapple

fibers for nonwoven textiles. Potential applications being explored include indoor roofing inlays,

insulation materials, and nonwoven textiles for thermal insulation and lighting diffusion.

Overall, these studies demonstrate the versatility and eco-friendly nature of banana and

pineapple fibers, paving the way for the development of sustainable and innovative products

across different industries.