Assessment of, and optimization for, the post-harvest storage and value addition of banana pseudostem fibers for sustainable construction composites

Project Abstract

Banana pseudostem fibers (BPF) offer a renewable, low-cost reinforcement for sustainable construction composites, yet post-harvest storage and value addition practices remain under-optimized, limiting their mechanical performance, durability, and commercial viability. This study investigates the integrated post-harvest handling, storage condition optimization, and engineered value-addition pathways to maximize the service life and structural efficiency of BPF-reinforced polymer and cementitious composites. A two-pronged approach combines (i) physical, chemical, and microbiological assessments of BPF under varying storage conditions—including ambient, cooled, salted, and dry-storage regimes—and (ii) treatment strategies such as alkali, silane, enzyme-based, and mechanical conditioning to enhance interfacial adhesion, fiber dispersion, and matrix compatibility. Comprehensive characterization encompasses fiber morphology (scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy), chemical composition (FTIR, XRD, lignin and extractives content), thermal stability (TGA/DSC), moisture dynamics, and aging behavior under hygrothermal cycling. Mechanical performance is evaluated through standardized single-fiber tests, and composite-level properties are determined using tensile, flexural, impact, and interlaminar shear strength tests for both natural fiber-reinforced polymer (NFRP) and cementitious matrix composites. A design of experiments framework elucidates the interaction effects among storage duration, moisture content, pre-treatment chemicals, and processing parameters on key outputs such as though-thickness modulus, Weibull strength distribution, and durability indicators. Lifecycle environmental and economic assessments quantify embodied energy, carbon footprint, and cost-benefit implications of adopting optimized BPF valorization routes in construction markets, with sensitivity analyses addressing market dynamics and policy incentives. The study advances a decision-support model that links storage condition envelopes to predicted composite performance, lifecycle performance, and maintenance intervals, enabling stakeholders to select practical, scalable post-harvest practices. Results are expected to demonstrate that optimized dry or modified storage reduces microbial degradation and hemicellulose loss, while targeted surface treatments markedly improve fiber-matrix interfacial bonding, resulting in significant gains in strength, stiffness, and impact resistance of BPF-reinforced composites without compromising environmental benefits. The optimization framework develops robust processing guidelines, including recommended storage durations, moisture thresholds, and treatment protocols, alongside standardized testing and quality control metrics for industry adoption. Findings will contribute to circular economy objectives by enabling higher value-added applications for banana agricultural residues, reducing reliance on synthetic fibers, and promoting sustainable construction materials with lower embodied energy and improved end-of-life options. The research also identifies bottlenecks, scalability considerations, and policy-relevant recommendations to facilitate widespread utilization of banana pseudostem fibers in regional construction supply chains. Overall, the project integrates storage science, surface engineering, composite materials engineering, and sustainability assessment to provide a holistic, implementable pathway for elevating the performance, durability, and market readiness of BPF-based construction composites.

Project Overview

What This Project Is About

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A plain-language overview of using banana pseudostem fibers for building materials, focusing on how to store the fibers after harvest and how to add value so they can be used in sustainable construction composites.

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The Problem It Addresses

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Banana plants produce a lot of fibrous waste after harvest. Poor storage can degrade fiber quality, reducing strength and durability. Finding simple, low-cost ways to store and improve these fibers can turn waste into a useful material for eco-friendly building products, helping farmers and the construction sector together.

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Objectives of the Project

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1. Assess how different storage methods affect banana pseudostem fiber quality over time.
2. Identify low-cost treatments to improve fiber strength and moisture resistance.
3. Develop a basic composite mix using treated fibers and a sustainable binder.
4. Evaluate the environmental and economic viability of the process.

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What You Will Do Step by Step

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1. Collect fresh banana pseudostem fibers and document initial properties.
2. Experiment with several storage methods (air-drying, sealing, moisture-controlled storage).
3. Test fiber quality at intervals (strength, moisture uptake, color, flexibility).
4. Apply simple, low-cost surface treatments to improve durability.
5. Prepare small composite samples with a green binder (e.g., biopolymers or recycled resin).
6. Test composite samples for basic mechanical performance (stiffness, strength) and fire safety basics.
7. Analyze data to see which storage and treatment methods work best.
8. Discuss practicality, scalability, and potential environmental benefits.

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Expected Outcome

A recommended storage protocol to maintain fiber quality, a simple, workable composite formulation using banana fibers, and an assessment of cost, sustainability, and potential impact for local communities.