Extraction and Characterization of Inherently Antimicrobial Fibres from Aerial Roots of Banyan Tree

ABSTRACT

Aerial roots of the Banyan tree were utilized to extract completely biodegradable natural fibers with inherent antimicrobial properties which can be used as potential raw material for health and hygiene products. Fiber extraction conditions were optimized for biological, chemical and enzymatic treatments. Bleaching and softening treatments were given for improving color, further individualization and enhancing handle of extracted fibers. The change in chemical composition due to alkali treatment was determined using FTIR. SEM was used to compare the change in surface morphology of fibers with the use of different treatment. Various physical and biological properties of the fibers were tested and compared with other lignocellulosic fibers. It was observed that the physical properties of fibers extracted from aerial roots of banyan tree were comparable to other natural cellulosic fibers like sisal, coir, jute. The fibers have a combination of properties such as low strength, moderate elongation along with good moisture regain and retention. Additionally, they exhibit excellent resistance against bacterial and fungal growth, which is quite rare in case of natural cellulosic fibers, making them suitable for potential usage, especially in hygiene products. Other applications in terms of fiber composites with suitable materials can also be envisaged.

摘要

以榕树气生根为原料，提取完全可生物降解的天然纤维，并对其抗菌性能进行研究. 对生物、化学和酶处理的纤维提取条件进行了优化. 通过漂白和软化处理，改善了纤维的色泽，进一步提高了纤维的手感。用红外光谱法测定了碱处理引起的化学成分的变化. 用扫描电镜（SEM）比较了不同处理方式对纤维表面形貌的影响. 测试了纤维的各种物理和生物性能，并与其它木质纤维进行了比较. 从榕树气生根中提取的纤维的物理性质与剑麻、椰壳、黄麻等天然纤维素纤维相当. 这种纤维具有低强度、中等伸长率以及良好的回潮率和保持力等综合性能. 此外，它们对细菌和真菌的生长表现出极好的抵抗力，这在天然纤维素纤维的情况下是非常罕见的，使它们适合潜在的用途，特别是在卫生产品中. 还可以设想在纤维复合材料和适当材料方面的其他应用.

KEYWORDS:

• Inherently antimicrobial fiber
• banyan fiber
• aerial root
• antibacterial natural lignocellulosic
• fungal resistance
• sustainable hygiene products

关键词:

• 天然抗菌纤维
• 榕树纤维
• 气生根
• 抗菌天然木质纤维
• 真菌抗性
• 可持续卫生产品