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12 pages, 468 KiB  
Article
Predicting Pineapple Quality from Hyperspectral Data of Plant Parts Applied to Machine Learning
by Vitória Carolina Dantas Alves, Sebastião Ferreira de Lima, Dthenifer Cordeiro Santana, Rafael Ferreira Barreto, Roger Augusto da Cunha, Ana Carina da Silva Cândido Seron, Larissa Pereira Ribeiro Teodoro, Paulo Eduardo Teodoro, Rita de Cássia Félix Alvarez, Cid Naudi Silva Campos, Carlos Antonio da Silva Junior and Fábio Luíz Checchio Mingotte
AgriEngineering 2025, 7(6), 170; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriengineering7060170 - 3 Jun 2025
Viewed by 1232
Abstract
Food quality detection by machine learning (ML) is more practical and sustainable as it does not require sample preparation and reagents. However, the prediction of pineapple quality by hyperspectral data applied to ML is not known. The aim of this study was to [...] Read more.
Food quality detection by machine learning (ML) is more practical and sustainable as it does not require sample preparation and reagents. However, the prediction of pineapple quality by hyperspectral data applied to ML is not known. The aim of this study was to verify accurate ML models for predicting pineapple fruit quality and the best inputs for algorithms: Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), M5P (model tree), REPTree decision trees, Random Forest (RF), Support Vector Machine (SMV) and Zero R. Three inputs were used for each model: leaf reflectance, peel reflectance, and fruit reflectance. The machine learning model SVM, stood out for its best results, demonstrating good generalization capacity and effectiveness in predicting these attributes, reaching accuracy values above 0.7 for Brix and ratio, using fruit reflectance. In terms of the overall efficiency of the input variables, peel and fruit were the most informative, with peel standing out for the estimation of secondary metabolism compounds, while the fruit showed excellent performance in predicting flavor-related attributes, such as acidity, °Brix and ratio, as mentioned previously, above 0.7. These results highlight the potential of using spectral data and machine learning in the non-destructive assessment of pineapple quality, enabling advances in monitoring and selecting fruits with better sensors. Full article
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14 pages, 3221 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Phenolic Compound Extraction from Pineapple Leaf Fiber: Stability Enhancement and Application in Mango Preservation
by Yijun Liu, Huifang Ma, Yuhan Wang, Qiangyou Li, Mingyang Shi and Gang Chen
Agriculture 2025, 15(11), 1203; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15111203 - 31 May 2025
Viewed by 485
Abstract
Focusing on the challenges of low utilization of pineapple leaves and the poor stability of phenolic compounds (PCs) in pineapple leaf fiber using traditional solvent extraction methods, the effects of different extraction media (including distilled water, neutral methanol, acidic methanol, alkaline methanol, neutral [...] Read more.
Focusing on the challenges of low utilization of pineapple leaves and the poor stability of phenolic compounds (PCs) in pineapple leaf fiber using traditional solvent extraction methods, the effects of different extraction media (including distilled water, neutral methanol, acidic methanol, alkaline methanol, neutral ethanol, and alkaline ethanol) was systematically investigated on the extraction efficiency of PCs from pineapple leaf fiber. Through response surface methodology (RSM), the optimal extraction conditions were determined. Additionally, the impacts of illumination and pH on the stability of PCs in pineapple leaf fiber were thoroughly examined. The results demonstrated that acidic ethanol outperformed other extraction media, with the optimized extraction conditions as follows: ethanol concentration = 80%, material-to-liquid ratio = 1:40, extraction temperature = 70 °C, and extraction time = 40 min. Under these conditions, the extraction yield of PCs reached 11.55 mg/g. Furthermore, the stability of PCs was significantly enhanced by minimizing light exposure and maintaining a pH range of 3–6. The potential application of PCs extracted from pineapple leaf fiber was also explored, particularly in mango preservation, revealing promising results. This study not only provides an efficient and sustainable approach for the extraction and stabilization of PCs from pineapple leaf fiber but also opens new avenues for the utilization of polyphenols in functional applications, contributing to the valorization of agricultural by-products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Product Quality and Safety)
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20 pages, 8165 KiB  
Article
Characterization and Application of Different Types of Pineapple Leaf Fibers (PALF) in Cement-Based Composites
by Julianna M. da Silva, Adilson Brito de Arruda Filho, Lidianne do N. Farias, Everton Hilo de Souza, Fernanda V. D. Souza, Cláudia F. Ferreira and Paulo R. L. Lima
Fibers 2025, 13(5), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/fib13050051 - 30 Apr 2025
Viewed by 1059
Abstract
The use of plant fibers as reinforcement in cement composites has gained significant interest due to their favorable mechanical properties and inherent sustainability, particularly when sourced from agro-industrial waste. In this study, six types of pineapple leaf fibers from commercial and hybrid varieties [...] Read more.
The use of plant fibers as reinforcement in cement composites has gained significant interest due to their favorable mechanical properties and inherent sustainability, particularly when sourced from agro-industrial waste. In this study, six types of pineapple leaf fibers from commercial and hybrid varieties were characterized in terms of morphology, crystallinity index, water absorption, dimensional stability, and mechanical properties to evaluate their potential as reinforcement in cement-based composites. An anatomical analysis of the leaves was conducted to identify fiber distribution and structural function. Cement-based composites reinforced with 1.5% (by volume) of long and aligned pineapple leaf fibers were produced and tested in bending. The results indicate that the tensile strength of pineapple fibers, ranging from 180 to 753 MPa, surpasses that of fibers already successfully used in composite reinforcement. Water absorption values ranged from 150% to 187%, while fiber diameter varied between 45% and 79% as fiber moisture changed from the dry state to the saturated state. The flexural behavior of the composites modified with pineapple leaf fibers exhibited multiple cracking and deflection hardening, with increases in flexural strength ranging from 6.25 MPa to 11 MPa. The cracking pattern under bending indicated a strong fiber–matrix bond, with values between 0.41 MPa and 0.93 MPa. All composites demonstrated high flexural toughness and great potential for the development of construction elements. Full article
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14 pages, 3148 KiB  
Article
Mechanical, Water Absorption, and Tribological Behavior of Polymer Composites: Role of Pineapple Leaf Fiber Orientation
by Nitish Kumar, Sudesh Singh, Abhishek Singh and Tianyi Han
Lubricants 2025, 13(4), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/lubricants13040161 - 3 Apr 2025
Viewed by 847
Abstract
Natural fiber-reinforced composites have become an important field of research due to their environment-friendly nature, low cost, lightweight, and excellent mechanical properties. In the current study, natural composites were fabricated by the hand layup technique to investigate the influence of pineapple leaf fiber [...] Read more.
Natural fiber-reinforced composites have become an important field of research due to their environment-friendly nature, low cost, lightweight, and excellent mechanical properties. In the current study, natural composites were fabricated by the hand layup technique to investigate the influence of pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) orientation on the mechanical properties and water absorption behaviors of epoxy composites. Pineapple leaf fibers, known for their natural fiber reinforcement capabilities, were incorporated into polymer matrices at various orientations (45°, 60°, 75°, and 90°) to evaluate their impact on the composite’s performance. Mechanical properties (tensile strength, flexural strength, impact energy, and micro-hardness) were assessed to understand how fiber alignment influences the overall structural integrity of the composite. Additionally, the water absorption characteristics of the fabricated composites were assessed by immersing specimens in water and measuring water uptake over time. Results revealed that fiber orientation plays a crucial role in enhancing mechanical strength and tribological properties, with composites reinforced with fibers aligned at 90° demonstrating efficient load transfer and reduced water absorption. Conversely, composites with fibers oriented at 45° showed relatively lower mechanical strength, higher water absorption, and lower tribological performance. These findings suggest that the optimization of fiber orientation in polymer composites can lead to enhanced performance and durability, making them suitable for an extensive range of eco-friendly and sustainable applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tribology of Polymeric Composites)
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18 pages, 9447 KiB  
Article
Physical and Microscopic Characterization of Thermal Treatment Products of Plant Waste for Recycling in Sustainable Construction
by Isabel Moromi, Jose Mendoza, Carlos Villegas, Ana Torre, Carmen Reyes and Luisa Shuan
Buildings 2025, 15(6), 870; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15060870 - 11 Mar 2025
Viewed by 546
Abstract
Organic plant waste is a significant source of environmental pollution, necessitating proper disposal methods. One sustainable approach is recycling this waste for beneficial applications. Recent studies have explored the potential of incorporating organic waste into construction materials. In this study, selected municipal organic [...] Read more.
Organic plant waste is a significant source of environmental pollution, necessitating proper disposal methods. One sustainable approach is recycling this waste for beneficial applications. Recent studies have explored the potential of incorporating organic waste into construction materials. In this study, selected municipal organic wastes—orange peel, corn cob and husk, pineapple leaf, and garden grass—were characterized and evaluated for their suitability in mortar and concrete production. A preliminary assessment involved substituting various percentages of sand with these organic residues in mortar mixtures. Among the tested materials, garden grass yielded the most promising results, exhibiting compressive strengths comparable to the control sample after seven days of curing. Based on these findings, mortar and concrete samples were prepared with 5% and 10% volumetric replacement of sand by grass. After seven days of curing, mortar samples with 5% and 10% grass replacement achieved 88% and 74.6% of the control sample’s compressive strength, respectively. Similarly, concrete samples reached 87% and 85% of the control strength after 28 days of curing. These results suggest that recycling garden grass as a partial sand substitute in mortar and concrete is a viable option. However, further research is necessary to determine the optimal substitution percentage and to evaluate long-term durability, ensuring safe and effective implementation in construction applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Materials, and Repair & Renovation)
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18 pages, 10813 KiB  
Article
Chemically Modified Pineapple Leaf Fibre as a Filler of Polyurethane-Based Composites
by Piotr Szatkowski, Rafał Twaróg, Karolina Sowińska and Kinga Pielichowska
Materials 2025, 18(2), 386; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18020386 - 16 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1035
Abstract
Pineapple leaf fibres represent a biodegradable raw material sourced from renewable resources whose use contributes to reducing the carbon footprint and limiting the amount of waste generated. Their potential applications can effectively decrease the industry’s dependence on plastics and support sustainable development, which [...] Read more.
Pineapple leaf fibres represent a biodegradable raw material sourced from renewable resources whose use contributes to reducing the carbon footprint and limiting the amount of waste generated. Their potential applications can effectively decrease the industry’s dependence on plastics and support sustainable development, which should accompany the production of modern materials. In this study, polyurethane-based composites reinforced with various types of natural cellulose fillers were developed and investigated. Microcrystalline cellulose and unmodified and chemically modified pineapple leaf fibres were used as reinforcements. The mechanical and thermal properties of the produced materials were determined and compared. The results of the tests indicated that both microcrystalline cellulose and pineapple leaf fibres contributed to a reduction in the mechanical properties of polyurethane. A varying impact of fillers on the Young’s modulus of the biocomposites was observed. The presence of natural modifiers influenced an increase in the melting temperature of the composite compared to the pure polyurethane. Integration of natural pineapple fibres into composite represents a step toward a more sustainable future, combining economic benefits with environmental care. The mechanical characteristics of composite materials were enhanced by modified fibres, compared to their unmodified counterparts. This improvement comes from the unique structural properties of the modified fibres. When polyurethane (PU) is used as the matrix material, it effectively fills the interfibrillar voids, creating a more cohesive bond between the components. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Bio-Polymer and Polymer Composites)
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22 pages, 3355 KiB  
Article
Structural Characteristics and Adsorption of Phosphorus by Pineapple Leaf Biochar at Different Pyrolysis Temperatures
by Shuhui Song, Siru Liu, Yanan Liu, Weiqi Shi and Haiyang Ma
Agronomy 2024, 14(12), 2923; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy14122923 - 6 Dec 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1086
Abstract
Biochar is a potential material for making slow-releasing phosphorus (P) fertilizers for the sake of increasing soil P-use efficiency. The adsorption of phosphorus by pineapple leaf biochar (PB) prepared at different pyrolysis temperatures and its mechanism remain unclear. In order to study the [...] Read more.
Biochar is a potential material for making slow-releasing phosphorus (P) fertilizers for the sake of increasing soil P-use efficiency. The adsorption of phosphorus by pineapple leaf biochar (PB) prepared at different pyrolysis temperatures and its mechanism remain unclear. In order to study the effect of preparation temperature on the structural characteristics of biochar from pineapple leaves and the adsorption of phosphorus by biochar, pineapple leaves were used as raw materials to prepare biochar by restricting oxygen supply at 300 °C, 500 °C, and 700 °C. The structural characteristics and adsorption of phosphorus by pineapple leaf biochar at different temperatures (PB300, PB500, and PB700) were analyzed. The results showed the following: (1) The pore structure of biochar pyrolysis at 300 °C (PB300) did not significantly change, while the surface structure of biochar pyrolysis at 700 °C (PB700) significantly changed, the specific surface area (SBET) increased by 26.91~37.10 times that observed in PB300 and PB500, and the pore wall became thinner. (2) The number of functional groups (C=O) in PB700 decreased, and the relative content of C-H/-CHO in PB500 and PB700 increased by 4.38 times that observed in PB300. (3) The adsorption of phosphorus by biochar was a multi-molecular layer chemisorption, accompanied by single-molecular-layer physical adsorption and intramolecular diffusion. For PB300, both the physical and chemical processes of the adsorption of PO43− by biochar were weakened, and the chemical process was dominated by cationic (Ca2+, Mg2+, Fe3+, and Al3+) adsorption at 500 °C. For PB700, the physical adsorption dominated by pore size structure was the main process, and the physicochemical adsorption at 700 °C was significantly stronger than that observed at 300 °C and 500 °C. These results indicate that biochar prepared at 500 °C can save energy in the preparation process and has excellent physical and chemical structure, which can be used as the basic material for further modification and preparation of biochar phosphate fertilizer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Soil and Plant Nutrition)
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17 pages, 4699 KiB  
Article
Melt-Extruded High-Density Polyethylene/Pineapple Leaf Waste Fiber Composites for Plastic Product Applications
by Mandla Vincent Khumalo, Murugan Sethupathi, Sifiso John Skosana and Sudhakar Muniyasamy
Separations 2024, 11(9), 256; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations11090256 - 30 Aug 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2173
Abstract
This study examines the impact of Pineapple Leaf Fiber (PALF) loading on the properties of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)/PALF composites successfully produced through a melt extrusion process. The melt-extruded HDPE/PALF composites were characterized by their thermal and mechanical properties and their morphologies. Subsequently, adding [...] Read more.
This study examines the impact of Pineapple Leaf Fiber (PALF) loading on the properties of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)/PALF composites successfully produced through a melt extrusion process. The melt-extruded HDPE/PALF composites were characterized by their thermal and mechanical properties and their morphologies. Subsequently, adding 5% maleic anhydride (MA) to the HDPE/PALF composite formulation led to significant improvements in the mechanical strength properties. Moreover, adding 10 wt.% PALF and 5% MA to the composites improves the crystallinity (10.38%) and Young’s modulus (17.30%) properties and affects the thermal stability. The optimal formulation is achieved with 10 wt.% PALF filler incorporated into the HDPE composite. This study highlights the promising potential of HDPE/PALF composites for plastic product applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Materials in Separation Science)
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29 pages, 10900 KiB  
Review
Recent Developments of Pineapple Leaf Fiber (PALF) Utilization in the Polymer Composites—A Review
by Murugan Sethupathi, Mandla Vincent Khumalo, Sifiso John Skosana and Sudhakar Muniyasamy
Separations 2024, 11(8), 245; https://doi.org/10.3390/separations11080245 - 12 Aug 2024
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 15731
Abstract
Plant fibers’ wide availability and accessibility are the main causes of the growing interest in sustainable technologies. The two primary factors to consider while concentrating on composite materials are their low weight and highly specific features, as well as their environmental friendliness. Pineapple [...] Read more.
Plant fibers’ wide availability and accessibility are the main causes of the growing interest in sustainable technologies. The two primary factors to consider while concentrating on composite materials are their low weight and highly specific features, as well as their environmental friendliness. Pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) stands out among natural fibers due to its rich cellulose content, cost-effectiveness, eco-friendliness, and good fiber strength. This review provides an intensive assessment of the surface treatment, extraction, characterization, modifications and progress, mechanical properties, and potential applications of PALF-based polymer composites. Classification of natural fibers, synthetic fibers, chemical composition, micro cellulose, nanocellulose, and cellulose-based polymer composite applications have been extensively reviewed and reported. Besides, the reviewed PALF can be extracted into natural fiber cellulose and lignin can be used as reinforcement for the development of polymer biocomposites with desirable properties. Furthermore, this review article is keen to study the biodegradation of natural fibers, lignocellulosic biopolymers, and biocomposites in soil and ocean environments. Through an evaluation of the existing literature, this review provides a detailed summary of PALF-based polymer composite material as suitable for various industrial applications, including energy generation, storage, conversion, and mulching films. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Degradation and Separation of Fibre-Based Materials)
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16 pages, 4729 KiB  
Article
Mechanical Characterization, Water Absorption, and Thickness Swelling of Lightweight Pineapple Leaf/Ramie Fabric-Reinforced Polypropylene Hybrid Composites
by Lin Feng Ng, Mohd Yazid Yahya, Chandrasekar Muthukumar, Jyotishkumar Parameswaranpillai, Quanjin Ma, Muhammad Rizal Muhammad Asyraf and Rohah Abdul Majid
Polymers 2024, 16(13), 1847; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16131847 - 28 Jun 2024
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2543
Abstract
Fiber-reinforced composites are among the recognized competing materials in various engineering applications. Ramie and pineapple leaf fibers are fascinating natural fibers due to their remarkable material properties. This research study aims to unveil the viability of hybridizing two kinds of lignocellulosic plant fiber [...] Read more.
Fiber-reinforced composites are among the recognized competing materials in various engineering applications. Ramie and pineapple leaf fibers are fascinating natural fibers due to their remarkable material properties. This research study aims to unveil the viability of hybridizing two kinds of lignocellulosic plant fiber fabrics in polymer composites. In this work, the hybrid composites were prepared with the aid of the hot compression technique. The mechanical, water-absorbing, and thickness swelling properties of ramie and pineapple leaf fiber fabric-reinforced polypropylene hybrid composites were identified. A comparison was made between non-hybrid and hybrid composites to demonstrate the hybridization effect. According to the findings, hybrid composites, particularly those containing ramie fiber as a skin layer, showed a prominent increase in mechanical strength. In comparison with non-hybrid pineapple leaf fabric-reinforced composites, the tensile, flexural, and Charpy impact strengths were enhanced by 52.10%, 18.78%, and 166.60%, respectively, when the outermost pineapple leaf fiber layers were superseded with ramie fabric. However, increasing the pineapple leaf fiber content reduced the water absorption and thickness swelling of the hybrid composites. Undeniably, these findings highlight the potential of hybrid composites to reach a balance in mechanical properties and water absorption while possessing eco-friendly characteristics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Composites and Nanocomposites)
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21 pages, 9016 KiB  
Article
New Composites Derived from the Natural Fiber Polymers of Discarded Date Palm Surface and Pineapple Leaf Fibers for Thermal Insulation and Sound Absorption
by Mohamed Ali, Zeyad Al-Suhaibani, Redhwan Almuzaiqer, Ali Albahbooh, Khaled Al-Salem and Abdullah Nuhait
Polymers 2024, 16(7), 1002; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym16071002 - 6 Apr 2024
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3887
Abstract
New composites made of natural fiber polymers such as wasted date palm surface fiber (DPSF) and pineapple leaf fibers (PALFs) are developed in an attempt to lower the environmental impact worldwide and, at the same time, produce eco-friendly insulation materials. Composite samples of [...] Read more.
New composites made of natural fiber polymers such as wasted date palm surface fiber (DPSF) and pineapple leaf fibers (PALFs) are developed in an attempt to lower the environmental impact worldwide and, at the same time, produce eco-friendly insulation materials. Composite samples of different compositions are obtained using wood adhesive as a binder. Seven samples are prepared: two for the loose natural polymers of PALF and DPSF, two for the composites bound by single materials of PALF and DPSF using wood adhesive as a binder, and three composites of both materials and the binder with different compositions. Sound absorption coefficients (SACs) are obtained for bound and hybrid composite samples for a wide range of frequencies. Flexural moment tests are determined for these composites. A thermogravimetric analysis test (TGA) and the moisture content are obtained for the natural polymers and composites. The results show that the average range of thermal conductivity coefficient is 0.042–0.06 W/(m K), 0.052–0.075 W/(m K), and 0.054–0.07 W/(m K) for the loose fiber polymers, bound composites, and hybrid composites, respectively. The bound composites of DPSF have a very good sound absorption coefficient (>0.5) for almost all frequencies greater than 300 Hz, followed by the hybrid composite ones for frequencies greater than 1000 Hz (SAC > 0.5). The loose fiber polymers of PALF are thermally stable up to 218 °C. Most bound and hybrid composites have a good flexure modulus (6.47–64.16 MPa) and flexure stress (0.43–1.67 Mpa). The loose fiber polymers and bound and hybrid composites have a low moisture content below 4%. These characteristics of the newly developed sustainable and biodegradable fiber polymers and their composites are considered promising thermal insulation and sound absorption materials in replacing synthetic and petrochemical insulation materials in buildings and other engineering applications. Full article
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18 pages, 13305 KiB  
Article
Upcycling of HDPE Milk Bottles into High-Stiffness, High-HDT Composites with Pineapple Leaf Waste Materials
by Taweechai Amornsakchai and Sorn Duangsuwan
Polymers 2023, 15(24), 4697; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15244697 - 13 Dec 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3735
Abstract
In the pursuit of sustainability and reduced dependence on new plastic materials, this study explores the upcycling potential of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) milk bottles into high-stiffness, high-heat-distortion-temperature (HDT) composites. Recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE) sourced from used milk bottles serves as the composite matrix, [...] Read more.
In the pursuit of sustainability and reduced dependence on new plastic materials, this study explores the upcycling potential of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) milk bottles into high-stiffness, high-heat-distortion-temperature (HDT) composites. Recycled high-density polyethylene (rHDPE) sourced from used milk bottles serves as the composite matrix, while reinforcing fillers are derived from dried pineapple leaves, comprising fibers (PALF) and non-fibrous materials (NFM). A two-roll mixer is employed to prepare rHDPE/NFM and rHDPE/PALF mixtures, facilitating filler alignment in the resulting prepreg. The prepreg is subsequently stacked and pressed into composite sheets. The introduction of PALF as a reinforcing filler significantly enhances the flexural strength and modulus of the rHDPE composite. A 20 wt.% PALF content yields a remarkable 162% increase in flexural strength and a 204% increase in modulus compared to neat rHDPE. The rHDPE/NFM composite also shows improved mechanical properties, albeit to a lesser degree than fiber reinforcement. Both composites exhibit a slight reduction in impact resistance. Notably, the addition of NFM or PALF substantially elevates HDT, raising the HDT values of the composites to approximately 84 °C and 108 °C, respectively, in contrast to the 71 °C HDT of neat rHDPE. Furthermore, the overall properties of both the composites are further enhanced by improving their compatibility through maleic anhydride-modified polyethylene (MAPE) use. Impact fracture surfaces of both composites reveal higher compatibility and clear alignment of NFM and PALF fillers, underscoring the enhanced performance and environmental friendliness of composites produced from recycled plastics reinforced with pineapple leaf waste fillers. Full article
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21 pages, 10953 KiB  
Article
Sunflower and Watermelon Seeds and Their Hybrids with Pineapple Leaf Fibers as New Novel Thermal Insulation and Sound-Absorbing Materials
by Mohamed Ali, Zeyad Al-Suhaibani, Redhwan Almuzaiqer, Khaled Al-Salem, Abdullah Nuhait, Fahad Algubllan, Meshari Al-Howaish, Abdullah Aloraini and Ibrahim Alqahtani
Polymers 2023, 15(22), 4422; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15224422 - 16 Nov 2023
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2803
Abstract
Pineapple leaf fiber (PALF), striped sunflower seed fiber (SFSF), and watermelon seed (WMS) are considered natural waste polymer materials, which are biodegradable and sustainable. This study presents new novel thermal insulation and sound absorption materials using such waste as raw materials. PALF, SFSF, [...] Read more.
Pineapple leaf fiber (PALF), striped sunflower seed fiber (SFSF), and watermelon seed (WMS) are considered natural waste polymer materials, which are biodegradable and sustainable. This study presents new novel thermal insulation and sound absorption materials using such waste as raw materials. PALF, SFSF, and WMS were used as loose, bound, and hybrid samples with different compositions to develop promising thermal insulation and sound-absorbing materials. Eleven sample boards were prepared: three were loose, three were bound, and five were hybrid between PALF with either SFSF or WMS. Wood adhesive was used as a binder for both the bound and hybrid sample boards. Laboratory scale sample boards of size 30 cm × 30 cm with variable thicknesses were prepared. The results show that the average thermal conductivity coefficient for the loose samples at the temperature range 20–80 °C is 0.04694 W/(m.K), 0.05611 W/(m.K), and 0.05976 W/m.K for PALF, SFSF, and WMS, respectively. Those for bound sample boards are 0.06344 W/(m.K), 0.07113 W/(m.K), and 0.08344 W/m.K for PALF, SFSF, and WMS, respectively. The hybrid ones between PALF and SFSF have 0.05921 W/m.K and 0.06845 W/(m.K) for two different compositions. The other hybrid between PALF and WMS has 0.06577 W/(m.K) and 0.07007 for two different compassions. The sound absorption coefficient for most of the bound and hybrid boards is above 0.5 and reaches higher values at some different frequencies. The thermogravimetric analysis for both SFSF and WMS shows that they are thermally stable up to 261 °C and 270 °C, respectively. The three-point bending moment test was also performed to test the mechanical properties of the bound and hybrid sample boards. It should be mentioned that using such waste materials as new sources of thermal insulation and sound absorption materials in buildings and other applications would lead the world to utilize the waste until zero agrowaste is reached, which will lower the environmental impact. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modification of Natural Polymers)
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15 pages, 6075 KiB  
Article
Development of Green Leather Alternative from Natural Rubber and Pineapple Leaf Fiber
by Sorn Duangsuwan, Preeyanuch Junkong, Pranee Phinyocheep, Sombat Thanawan and Taweechai Amornsakchai
Sustainability 2023, 15(21), 15400; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152115400 - 28 Oct 2023
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 18002
Abstract
In the present research, a plant-based leather substitute material or leather alternative was developed from natural rubber (NR) and pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) using a simple process. Pineapple leaf fiber was extracted from waste pineapple leaves using a mechanical method. Untreated PALF (UPALF) [...] Read more.
In the present research, a plant-based leather substitute material or leather alternative was developed from natural rubber (NR) and pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) using a simple process. Pineapple leaf fiber was extracted from waste pineapple leaves using a mechanical method. Untreated PALF (UPALF) and sodium hydroxide-treated PALF (TPALF) were then formed into non-woven sheets using a paper making process. PALF non-woven sheets were then coated with compounded natural rubber latex at three different NR/PALF ratios, i.e., 60/40, 50/50, and 40/60. Epoxidized natural rubber with an epoxidation level of 10% (ENR) was used as an adhesion promoter, and its content was varied at 5, 10, and 15% by weight of the total rubber. The obtained leathers were characterized in terms of tensile properties, tear strength, and hardness. The internal structure of the leathers was observed with a scanning electron microscope. Comparison of these properties was made against those reported in the literature. It was found that the leather with NR/PALF equal to 50/50 was the most satisfactory; that prepared from TPALF was softer and had greater extension at break. With the addition of ENR at 5%, the stress-strain curve of each respective leather increased significantly, and as the amount of ENR was increased to 10 and 15%, the stresses at corresponding strains dropped to lower values but remained higher than that without ENR. PALF leather prepared in this study has comparable or better properties than other alternative leathers reported in the literature and is much stronger than that made from mushrooms. Thus, this type of leather alternative offers unique characteristics of being bio-based and having a lower carbon footprint. Full article
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15 pages, 5172 KiB  
Article
Comparative Study of Flax and Pineapple Leaf Fiber Reinforced Poly(butylene succinate): Effect of Fiber Content on Mechanical Properties
by Taweechai Amornsakchai, Sorn Duangsuwan, Karine Mougin and Kheng Lim Goh
Polymers 2023, 15(18), 3691; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym15183691 - 7 Sep 2023
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3379
Abstract
In this study, we compare the reinforcing efficiency of pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) and cultivated flax fiber in unidirectional poly(butylene succinate) composites. Flax, known for robust mechanical properties, is contrasted with PALF, a less studied but potentially sustainable alternative. Short fibers (6 mm) [...] Read more.
In this study, we compare the reinforcing efficiency of pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) and cultivated flax fiber in unidirectional poly(butylene succinate) composites. Flax, known for robust mechanical properties, is contrasted with PALF, a less studied but potentially sustainable alternative. Short fibers (6 mm) were incorporated at 10 and 20% wt. levels. After two-roll mill mixing, uniaxially aligned prepreg sheets were compression molded into composites. At 10 wt.%, PALF and flax exhibited virtually the same stress–strain curve. Interestingly, PALF excelled at 20 wt.%, defying its inherently lower tensile properties compared to flax. PALF/PBS reached 70.7 MPa flexural strength, 2.0 GPa flexural modulus, and 107.3 °C heat distortion temperature. Comparable values for flax/PBS were 57.8 MPa, 1.7 GPa, and 103.7 °C. X-ray pole figures indicated similar matrix orientations in both composites. An analysis of extracted fibers revealed differences in breakage behavior. This study highlights the potential of PALF as a sustainable reinforcement option. Encouraging the use of PALF in high-performance bio-composites aligns with environmental goals. Full article
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