Researchers have developed a plant-based leather alternative using pineapple leaf fibre (PALF) and natural rubber (NR). This eco-friendly material promises to revolutionise the leather industry with its impressive strength and sustainability.
THE PROJECT: The process begins with the extraction of pineapple leaf fibre from waste pineapple leaves through a mechanical method, showcasing a clever use of agricultural waste.
- The extracted fibres are then divided into two categories: untreated (UPALF) and sodium hydroxide-treated (TPALF) to widen the leather properties.
- These fibres are formed into non-woven sheets using a paper-making process, which are then coated with compounded natural rubber latex in various NR/PALF ratios.
- To enhance the material's properties, an adhesion promoter could be added. The resulting leather-like materials were rigorously tested for tensile properties, tear strength, and hardness, with their internal structures examined using a scanning electron microscope.
- The study found that the leather alternative with an PALF/NR ratio of 50/50 was the most satisfactory, particularly the variant prepared from TPALF, which was softer and had greater extension at break. The inclusion of adhesion promoter significantly enhanced the stress-strain curves of the materials.
- Comparative analysis revealed that this newly developed PALF leather not only matches but often surpasses other alternative leathers reported in the literature. Notably, it exhibits much greater strength than leather alternatives made from mushrooms.
- This leather substitute is bio-based, plastic-free and claims of a lower carbon footprint, making it an attractive option for industries seeking sustainable materials.
- With its combination of strength, flexibility, and eco-friendliness, the PALF and NR-based leather could pave the way for a greener future in the fashion and upholstery sectors.
THE FINDINGS: The finding from this study was conducted by a team of Thai researchers, led by Professor Taweechai Amornsakchai from Mahidol University.
- The findings have been published in the Sustainability journal.
