Research on cottonized pineapple fiber fabric: a breakthrough in sustainable fashion in vietnam, conducted by Kim Vu Fabric and Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology
Today, the fashion industry is moving toward sustainability. A promising research project has been carried out in collaboration between Kim Vu Fabric and the Department of Textile Technology at University of Technology, National University of Ho Chi Minh City (HCMUT). Led by Associate Professor Dr. Bui Mai Huong and Master Tran Hoang Kim Ngan, the project has introduced pineapple fiber into the production of textiles and fashion products.
Pineapple fiber: a natural material with great potential in the textile industry
Pineapple fiber, a natural material, not only boasts biodegradability but also holds significant potential in the textile industry. According to Associate Professor Dr. Mai Thanh Phung (Head of the Southern Branch – National Agricultural Extension Center), pineapples are widely grown in Vietnam, with an area of approximately 40,000 hectares and an annual output of over 500,000 tons. 90% of the pineapple cultivation is concentrated in the southern provinces.
Source: Research and evaluation of the potential of pineapple leaves in fiber spinning and fabric weaving (Journal of Science and Technology, 2020)
With an abundant supply of pineapple leaves, the research project by Kim Vu Fabric and HCMUT has focused on developing pineapple fiber fabric.. The cottonization process of pineapple fiber has transformed it into a durable, smooth, and easy-to-process material, opening up vast opportunities for widespread application in the sustainable fashion industry in Vietnam.
Overview of the cottonized pineapple fiber fabric research project
1. Testing and Comparing the Properties of Pineapple Fiber:
– Compare the properties of raw pineapple fiber, treated pineapple fiber, and cottonized pineapple fiber.
– Evaluate the ability of different approaches to form films in order to determine the optimal ratio for fabric production.
2. Research Methods:
– Apply both mechanical and chemical methods to treat raw pineapple fiber, improving its quality and spinning capabilities.
– Use measurement techniques to compare the properties of different fiber samples, assessing their strength and film-forming ability.
3. Fiber Blending Ratios and Spinning Film Formation:
– The research team has identified an optimal blending ratio, with at least 50% polyester fiber content.
– This ensures stability and durability during the spinning process, promoting consistent fiber strength.
4. Future Research and Improvements:
– Investigate the factors influencing the scouring process of raw pineapple fiber, using environmentally friendly chemicals and appropriate scouring concentrations.
– Assess the softening process of cottonized pineapple fiber before film formation, in order to enhance the quality and application potential of the pineapple fiber.
Proud results of the project: The creation of products made from pineapple fiber
The project has moved beyond theoretical work and has successfully developed products, including:
- Raw Pineapple Fiber: This is the initial material in the production process.
- Pineapple Yarn: Once cottonized, pineapple fiber becomes smooth yarn that can be easily woven into fabric.
- Pineapple Fabric: Pineapple fabric is highly durable, soft, and breathable, making it ideal for Vietnam’s tropical climate.
- Fashion Products: Garments, bags, dresses, and jeans made from pineapple fabric combine aesthetics with sustainability.
Pineapple fabric is not only durable but also lightweight, breathable, and highly absorbent. It is especially notable for its natural UV resistance and antibacterial properties, with up to 99% effectiveness, ensuring the wearer remains comfortable throughout the day.
Positive impact of the project on the environment and economy
According to UNEP, the textile industry consumes 79 million tons of polyester annually, accounting for 60% of global fabric production, and generates large amounts of non-biodegradable plastic waste. Replacing polyester with pineapple fiber will significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste.
Additionally, the production of pineapple fiber fabric consumes less water and energy compared to cotton or polyester. According to the U.S. National Research Council (NRC), producing 1 kg of cotton requires 10,000 liters of water, while polyester uses 2,700 liters of water to produce just one shirt. In contrast, pineapple fiber fabric reduces water usage by 30-40%.
Beyond environmental benefits, pineapple fiber fabric also opens up significant economic opportunities in the sustainable fashion trend. According to Nielsen (2019), 66% of global consumers are willing to pay more for products made from sustainable materials. This not only helps expand the Vietnamese textile industry with green fabric options but also drives export growth.
Thank you to the department of textile technology and associate professor DR.. Bui Mai Hương
Kim Vu Fabric would like to express sincere gratitude to the Department of Textile Technology at HCMUT, as well as Associate Professor Dr. Bùi Mai Hương and the students for their collaboration on the pineapple fiber research project. The enthusiastic support and expertise of the professor and students have played a crucial role in the success of the project, opening up many new opportunities for the textile industry in Vietnam.
