Design and Fabrication of a Banana Fiber Extractor: A Sustainable Solution for Agricultural Waste-to-Energy Conversion

Abstract

The global energy crisis and environmental degradation necessitate the development of innovative waste-to-energy technologies. This study presents the design, fabrication, and analysis of an integrated system centered on a novel banana fiber extractor, conceptualized as the first stage of a sustainable bio-refinery. The primary machine efficiently extracts high-quality banana fibers (diameter: 0.05–0.25 mm) for industrial use. Its core innovation lies in the synergistic valorization of residual biomass for energy production. The extracted fibers are sustainable materials that reduce energy consumption in industries such as textiles. More significantly, the remaining lingo-cellulosic waste (over 70% of the stem mass) is a high-potential feedstock for anaerobic digestion and biofuel production. Our analysis confirmed the suitability of the residual biomass for biogas generation, with a high organic content. This closed-loop model not only addresses the environmental challenge of agricultural waste, which contributes to methane emissions when decomposed improperly, but also transforms it into a renewable energy source. This study demonstrates a viable and scalable pathway for enhancing energy security in rural agricultural communities, promoting a circular economy, and reducing reliance on fossil fuels through distributed biomass-based power generation.