Amazonian tucum (Astrocaryum chambira Burret) leaf fiber and handcrafted yarn characterization

Abstract

Astrocaryum chambira is an important palm tree employed for many people along the Amazonian region in handcrafts and other products, by traditional manipulation techniques. The aim of this study is to perform a physical and chemical characterization of A. chambira Burret (Tucum) fibers, comparing the obtained parameters with others from commonly employed textile fibers, and to perform the characterization of the handcrafted yarn manufactured by this traditional Amazonian community in Brazil. Reflections about the relation between this fiber and traditional communities were also made. Main characteristics were determined, namely: 90 ± 12 cm fiber length; 1.510 ± 0.007 g/cm3 density; 10.0 ± 0.34% regain; 80.3% index of crystallinity; TGA; DTG and DSC profiles with estimated values of holocellulose (68.4%) and lignin (21.7%); and tensile tests resulting in: 37.4 ± 5.6 cN/Tex tenacity; 6.6 ± 0.4% elongation; 8.3 ± 1.0 N/Tex Young’s Modulus. Siliceous bodies (phytoliths) are found along the longitudinal surfaces of A. chambira Burret fibers. The results obtained may be a database of A. chambira fibers, helping future research that will addresses its application potential as an alternative textile fiber.