Coir (Cocos nucifera) : A Sustainable Industrial Fibre

This monograph is intended to present an overview- most of which is based on ideas and conclusions presented in published literature, the rest representing our own concepts developed through extensive research. Here, the reader will discover the rational relationships between basic mechanisms, and experimental data, and theoretical expressions which were developed over several years by scientists for coir fibre characterisation and utilisation in particular. It will help to those who deal with coir fibre in both industry and academia specially to teachers, students and technologists. It contains the perspective of coir, its textile related structure and properties with a comparison between few other allied lingo-cellulosic fibres. Coir fibre are coarser for textile applications and possesses highly variable properties. So segregation of fibres from the bulk considering properties may give suitable fibre for spinning, composite making and other applications. The optimum value addition of coir can be realized, when a fully systematic supply chain of quality fibre with proper gradation system can be developed. The fibre shows high flexural rigidity and lower inter-fibre frictional resistance for which it is difficult to spin finer yarn and indicates its suitability for coarse textile applications. Coir fibre is circular and multi-fibrillar. Moisture regain is moderate. Thermal and component analyses reveal the presence of similar amount of lignin and celluloses in the fibre. SEM image reveals that surface of the fibre is waxy, irregular, and having micro-imperfections. Microbial resistance makes the coir suitable for using it in different engineering and geotechnical applications in conjunction with soil and water. The property-based advantages of coir are resistant to fungi and rot, excellent insulation against temperature, not easily combustible, flame-retardant, resistant to moisture and dampness, tough and durable, highly resilient, totally static free, easy to clean etc. It is not suitable for technical uses due to low strength, high extensibility and very low modulus. Sometimes high bulk and low coefficient of friction act as the disadvantages. The age old manual spinning technology should be replaced by mechanised system. The fibres can be highly suitable to form compressed mat for various products of geotextile, agro-textiles, and sound and heat insulators with improved softness and fineness property. Being an ecofriendly, natural product from renewable sources, coir products serve mankind in several ways as a substitute for many synthetic products which are extensively used but are harmful to nature. Coir wood substitute will help to protect valuable forests.