Authors :
N.O. Ukwu; I.U Onyenanu; K. C. Owuama
Volume/Issue :
Volume 9 - 2024, Issue 4 - April
Google Scholar :
https://tinyurl.com/55hs8kz2
Scribd :
https://tinyurl.com/4bhuj5sy
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/IJISRT24APR2282
Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.
Abstract :
Banana fiber is an underutilized natural
resource with potential for industrial applications and
value addition at the smallholder farm level. Traditional
manual methods for extracting fibers from banana plant
wastes are inefficient and labour-intensive. This limits
opportunities for rural communities in Africa to
commercialize banana cultivation. The study aimed to
address this challenge by developing an affordable and
effective mechanized solution for extracting banana
fibers tailored to small farms. Key design considerations
included ease of operation, portability, durability, and
optimization for a single operator. Fabrication using
basic workshop tools demonstrated technical feasibility.
Structural analysis validated structural integrity.
Performance testing showed 85% extraction efficiency at
5.36kg/sec, outpacing manual methods. Results confirm
the potential of the machine to promote higher fiber
yields. With further refinement, the developed
technology can stimulate enterprise and industry
centered on banana production, contributing to
improved rural livelihoods on the continent.
Keywords :
Banana Fiber, Extraction, Mechanization, Machine, Design, Fabrication, Africa, Smallholder Farms, Affordability, Efficiency.
Banana fiber is an underutilized natural
resource with potential for industrial applications and
value addition at the smallholder farm level. Traditional
manual methods for extracting fibers from banana plant
wastes are inefficient and labour-intensive. This limits
opportunities for rural communities in Africa to
commercialize banana cultivation. The study aimed to
address this challenge by developing an affordable and
effective mechanized solution for extracting banana
fibers tailored to small farms. Key design considerations
included ease of operation, portability, durability, and
optimization for a single operator. Fabrication using
basic workshop tools demonstrated technical feasibility.
Structural analysis validated structural integrity.
Performance testing showed 85% extraction efficiency at
5.36kg/sec, outpacing manual methods. Results confirm
the potential of the machine to promote higher fiber
yields. With further refinement, the developed
technology can stimulate enterprise and industry
centered on banana production, contributing to
improved rural livelihoods on the continent.
Keywords :
Banana Fiber, Extraction, Mechanization, Machine, Design, Fabrication, Africa, Smallholder Farms, Affordability, Efficiency.
