Research Projects

The proposed project aims to scale-up and demonstrate a comprehensive approach for recovering high-value products from waste banana pseudostem. The project includes process scale-up and demonstration of controlled digestion of banana pseudostem for recovering quality natural fiber for various applications, preparation of fiber-based biodegradable polymer composites, extraction of cellulose nanofibres and cellulose nanocrystals, synthesis of carboxylated nanocellulose fiber, development of a portable microfiltration device, extraction of holocellulose, recovery of bioenergy and soil conditioner from residues and poor quality fibers, and technical and economic feasibility analysis for field implementation. The methodology includes a 100 kg/batch handling digestion unit for separating good quality fiber from the waste stem, catalyzed by an enrichment microbial system releasing pectinase and cellulose. The fiber separated will be used for various product development, such as composites with PLA, nano-cellulose, and holo cellulose fiber. The major hypothesis is that recovering high-value products from waste banana stem through scientific and technological interventions will generate additional income and job opportunities for rural communities. The project will also address environmental issues associated with unscientific disposal of waste banana stems and develop alternatives to single-use plastics biodegradable packaging films and aerogels.