Extraction and Characterization of Indigenous Ethiopian Violet Tree Bast Fiber

Abstract Recently, there has been growing interest in sustainable consumption, mainly due to its eco-friendliness and potential as raw materials for the textile and fashion industries. This study investigated the qualities of the Ethiopian violet tree (Enjeji) and its potential for producing environmentally acceptable materials. Chemical extraction techniques using sodium hydroxide were used. Length, diameter, fineness, tenacity, moisture content, moisture regain, cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and ash content were the physical, mechanical, and chemical characteristics described. The findings demonstrate that the properties of the fiber are similar to those of other bast fibers utilized in the fashion and textile industries. Chemical composition analysis revealed that the Ethiopian violet tree fiber is composed of 62–66% cellulose, 18.5–25% hemicellulose, and 13.45-14% lignin. The FTIR spectra of the extracted fibers also confirmed the presence of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin. The dimensional characteristics of the fiber show a diameter of 14.2–30.8 lm and fineness of 4.6–13.5 tex, with fiber length ranging from 180 mm to 200 mm; moisture content and moisture regain are 10.8% and 12%, respectively. The mechanical properties of the fiber show tenacity 55cN/tex, tensile strength of 650–720 MPa, and elastic modulus1915 cN/tex, placing it close to established bast fibers such as hemp and flax. The high cellulose content, good dimensional and moisture characteristics, and good mechanical properties of banana fibers compared with conventional natural fibers indicate possible conventional and non-conventional applications in the textile and fashion industries.