Palmyra Palm Shell (Borassus flabellifer) Properties Part 1: Insights into Its Physical and Chemical Properties

Bio-based materials play a significant role in developing efficient engineering materials because of availability, recyclability and eco-friendliness. Products from Borassus flabellifer are found in both urban and rural locations in Bangladesh, and its fruits, leaf stems, and leaves are utilised in domestic applications, while some, mainly the fruit shells (husk), are discarded as agricultural waste. The objective of this study is to characterise the physical and chemical properties of the Borassus husk fibre experimentally, and it has been found that the density of the husk fibre is 0.74 g/cm 3 , water absorption is 47.25%, moisture regain is 4.41%, and porosity is 34.58%. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis reveals cross-linked, non-uniform, cylindrical tubular fibers. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirms the presence of hemicellulose, cellulose, lignin, and other components, aligning with the composition of natural bio-fibers such as jute, sisal, and flax. This indicates the material’s potential as an alternative natural fiber for lightweight engineering applications.