Investigation of the banana trunk for potential fibre extraction

The focus of this research study was to investigate banana trunks for potential fibre extraction. Among many varieties grown everywhere in Tanzania for various use, this study aimed at investigating suitability for fibre extraction of four varieties of AAA-EA genomic group (cooking type) from Southern part of Tanzania (Mbeya). The objectives were to determine the mechanical properties of fibre, from banana trunks and to investigate which variety is suitable for fibre extraction. Fibre from the four varieties: Matoke, Ndyali, Malindi and Uganda were manually extracted and analyzed in the laboratory work. Fundamental mechanical properties such as breaking load, elongation, modulus and tenacity were tested to decide end use and performance of fibre. Findings revealed higher average values for: tenacity in matoke (67.27 gf/tex), elongation in Malindi(3.5%) and Modulus in Uganda (32.23 GPa). The highest fibre recovery was recorded from Ndyali variety (1.57%). These properties varied significantly between the varieties.

The study has added understanding that, all varieties can be exploited for fibre extraction. Further studies on this subject are recommended in order to explore the possibility of fully utilizing the banana plant as a source of additional income.