Green Leather.
In a significant breakthrough in sustainable materials science, researchers have developed a plant-based leather alternative using pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) and natural rubber (NR). This eco-friendly material promises to revolutionize the leather industry with its impressive strength and sustainability.
The process begins with the extraction of pineapple leaf fiber from waste pineapple leaves through a mechanical method, showcasing a clever use of agricultural waste. The extracted fibers are then divided into two categories: untreated (UPALF) and sodium hydroxide-treated (TPALF) to widen the leather properties. These fibers 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 innovative leather substitute is bio-based, plastic-free and boasts 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 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, at https://doi.org/10.3390/ (https://doi.org/10.3390/) su152115400 [1].
Professor (Associate/Reader) Kheng Lim Goh from Newcastle University in Singapore, the 2019 IULTCS Heidemann Lecturer (see [2-3]), says that this PALF/NR leather is a game-changer in sustainable fashion, transforming pineapple leaf waste into eco-friendly leather. He believes that it could be embraced by apparel and furniture companies, as it offers a greener alternative to traditional leather without additional environmental costs.
For further information, please contact:
Professor Taweechai Amornsakchai at [email protected] (mailto:[email protected])
Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Rama VI Rd., Bangkok 10400, Administrator Email: [email protected]
or the author of this news article, Professor Kheng Lim Goh at [email protected] (mailto:kheng- [email protected]).
Reference
[1] Duangsuwan, S.; Junkong, P.; Phinyocheep, P.; Thanawan, S.; Amornsakchai, T. Development of Green Leather Alternative from Natural Rubber and Pineapple Leaf Fiber. Sustainability 2023, 15, 15400. https://doi.org/10.3390/ su152115400
[2] “IULTCS International Congress announced the presenter of the ‘Heidemann Lecture’” https://tok-bg.org/2019/01/20/iultcs-international-congress-announced-th...
[3] “THE 35TH IULTCS INTERNATIONAL CONGRESS 2019, DRESDEN” https://www.lasra.co.nz/the-35th-iultcs-international-congress-2019-dres...
