Development of water-resistant cotton fabric using chitosan and plant-based wax extracted from pineapple crowns

Abstract

Purpose – This study aims to develop a biodegradable, water-resistant coating for cotton fabric using wax from pineapple crown waste and chitosan as a natural binder. The goal was to improve fabric performance through an eco-friendly process while adding value to agricultural waste. Design/methodology/approach – Wax was extracted from pineapple crown waste using hexane reflux extraction and emulsified with different chitosan ratios to form stable mixtures. These were applied to cotton fabric through a pad-dry-cure process. The treated fabrics were then tested for water resistance, color, surface morphology, tensile strength, air permeability and water vapor transmission properties. Findings – Pineapple crown wax–chitosan emulsions significantly improved the water resistance of cotton fabrics, with the 50:50 chitosan-to-wax ratio achieving the highest contact angle of 142.4°, indicating strong hydrophobicity. Preliminary tests showed that the coating maintained its performance after 15 washing cycles. Scanning electron microscopy images revealed a uniform surface coating that reduced water permeability. Although air and water vapor permeability slightly decreased, the tensile strength remained within acceptable limits. Originality/value – An eco-friendly textile coating was made from chitosan and wax extracted from pineapple crown leaves, a widely available agricultural waste. By using biodegradable materials, the coating provides a sustainable alternative to synthetic finishes, supporting environmental sustainability and promoting circular economy practices in the textile industry.