TITLE:
Chemical Composition and Microstructural Characterization of Water-Retted Banana Stem Fibers
AUTHORS:
Zara Haman, Zang Zang Arcene, Nana Linus Ange, Godwe Moïse, Desmond Mufor Zy, Batchou Kamga Viviane Solange, Hambate Gomdje Valery
KEYWORDS:
Chemical Composition, Textile, Banana Stems, Microstructural Analysis, Cellulose
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Textile Science and Technology,
Vol.12 No.4,
November
13,
2026
ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to determine the chemical composition and carry out the microstructural analysis of fibers derived from plantain stems, with a view to their application in textiles as an alternative source of cellulose. Plantain stems (HB) from Cameroon of the false French variety were used. The fibers were extracted using a water retting process and then characterized. Quantitative analyses of the chemical constituents were carried out using Technical Analysis for Pulp and Paper Industry (TAPPI) methods on dry, powdered fibers with an average particle size of around 315 μm. Microscopic analyses were carried out using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The results of the chemical analyses showed that the fibers contained 60% - 64% cellulose, 19% - 20% hemicellulose, 8% - 10% lignin, and 3.5% - 4.5% pectins. The results of the structural analyses show an irregular surface with numerous filaments, impurities, cells, and pores that correspond to the typical surface of most natural plant fibers. The chemical and structural characteristics of the fibers highlight their potential as cellulose-rich natural fibers.