Characterization of Blended Birds of Paradise and Bamban Plant Fibers as Alternative Textile Material

Abstract: The growing environmental impact of synthetic textiles has intensified the search for sustainable, plant-based alternatives. This study aimed to develop a blended textile from birds of paradise (Strelitzia reginae) and bamban plant (Donax canniformis) fibers and to determine its mechanical properties (tensile strength and breaking elongation), chemical properties (burning rate, washability, and water absorption), and overall acceptability as alternative textile material in terms of hand feel, irregularity of the ribs, color shade, and presence of plugs. A developmental research design was employed to extract, process, blend, and test the fibers under controlled conditions. The statistical tool used was the mean, which determined the acceptability of the blended birds of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) and bamban plant (Donax canniformis) textile. A total of 25 experts evaluated the product, consisting of garment shop owners, garment teachers, fashion designers, local dressmakers, and end users. An evaluation sheet was utilized to assess the blended textile. The textile underwent a series of tests to determine its mechanical and chemical properties. Findings revealed that the individual fibers of birds of paradise (Strelitzia reginae) and bamban plant (Donax canniformis) were verbally interpreted as durable, while the blended fibers exhibited improved overall strength when combined and were interpreted as very durable, demonstrating enhanced load-bearing performance through fiber blending. In terms of breaking elongation, the individual fibers were verbally interpreted as least elastic, while the blended fibers were interpreted as less elastic, showing improved flexibility compared to the individual fibers, although still within the less elastic range. The burning rate test showed that the blended textile shrank easily when exposed to flame, emitted a pungent urine-like odor, and left a black, hollow, and gritty bead residue. It was interpreted as highly combustible, comparable to cotton and jute. Washability testing showed no noticeable changes after soaking in detergent for thirty minutes, indicating good color stability. The water absorption test revealed that the blended textile has low absorbency, which can be advantageous for applications requiring quick drying and resistance to moisture. Overall, the textile from blended birds of paradise (Strelitzia reginae) and bamban plant (Donax canniformis) textile was rated as “Very Acceptable” in terms of hand feel, irregularity of the ribs, color shade, and presence of plugs based on its level of acceptability.

Keywords: Characterization, Blended Birds of Paradise & Bamban Plant, Alternative Textile Material