Palmyra Palm Shell (Borassus flabellifer) Properties Part 1: Insights
into Its Physical and Chemical Properties
Abstract
Bio-based materials play a significant role in developing efficient
engineering materials because of availability, recyclability and
eco-friendliness. Products from Borassus flabellifer are found in both
urban and rural locations in Bangladesh, and its fruits, leaf stems, and
leaves are utilised in domestic applications, while some, mainly the
fruit shells (husk), are discarded as agricultural waste. The objective
of this study is to characterise the physical and chemical properties of
the Borassus husk fibre experimentally, and it has been found that the
density of the husk fibre is 0.74 g/cm 3, water
absorption is 47.25%, moisture regain is 4.41%, and porosity is
34.58%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis reveals
cross-linked, non-uniform, cylindrical tubular fibers. Fourier transform
infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirms the presence of hemicellulose,
cellulose, lignin, and other components, aligning with the composition
of natural bio-fibers such as jute, sisal, and flax. This indicates the
material’s potential as an alternative natural fiber for lightweight
engineering applications.