ENZYMATIC EXTRACTION AND PROCESSING OF NON-CONVENTIONAL FIBER FROM BETEL NUT (ARECA CATECHU)
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Date
2021
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Publisher
AAU, Jorhat
Abstract
The search for efficient and green oxidation technologies has increased to
replace the conventional non-biological methods. In the present investigation an efforts
have been made to treat the areca husk fiber with cellulose enzyme as a suitable and
eco-friendly alternative to chemical processing for achieving desired softness in areca
husk fiber. Enzymes treatment removed the protruding hairs on the surface, enhances
the water absorbency and also makes the fiber more soften. Among the different
existing enzymes, cellulase have been using intensively in textile industry due to their
advantageous property. Cellulase enzymes have become an efficient tool for finishing.
Moreover, this enzyme can be used to modify the surface properties of the fiber.
Utilization of agro waste material is an important means to conserve the
environment from dumping large quantity in to bare lands and it also helps in new
innovative product development from low cost materials. In the present study, well
matured areca nut husk were collected in large quantities and the fiber was extracted by
water retting method. Extracted fibers were treated with two cellulase enzymes (acid
cellulase and cellulase).The physical, chemical and mechanical properties of treated and
untreated areca nut husk fiber were studied. The fiber shows good cellulase and
hemicelluloses content and little amount of ash and wax content. The surface
morphology is examined with the help of SEM at various magnifications. Fiber is found
to be shorter in length and has good strength properties. Moisture and density of the
fiber is also analyzed. After that both the enzyme treated and raw areca nut husk fiber
processed for composite board preparation. The prepared composite boards were tested
for various performance properties.
It was found that after the enzyme treatment, physical properties such as
moisture regain, fiber diameter, water absorbency, wicking height etc and mechanical
properties viz., elongation, density and surface characteristics were improved as
compared to untreated fiber. Moreover, enzyme treated fiber reinforced composite
board also provide higher physical and mechanical property as compared to untreated
fiber reinforced composite board. This can be concluded from the study that the
prepared composite board made of areca husk fibers is suitable for interior use as well
as furnishing products and sports equipment.