Assessment of Proximate and Biomass Composition of Cori Fibre for Potential Industrial Application

Abstract

Background: The versatile nature of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) husk fibres, known as Cori fibres, makes them suitable for various industrial applications. This study aims to assess the biomass composition of Cori fibres to explore their potential in industrial applications. Materials and Methods: Coconut husks were procured from Ihiagwa market, Owerri, Nigeria, and processed to obtain Cori fibres. The fibres were cleaned, dried, and weighed. A comprehensive proximate analysis was performed, including moisture content (ASTM E1756-08), ash content, carbon content, crude fibre, crude fat, and crude protein (Kjeldahl method). Biomass characteristics such as pectin, amylopectin, cellulose, lignin, and hemicellulose contents were also determined using standard methodologies. Results: The proximate analysis revealed the following composition of Cori fibres: moisture content (7.43 ± 0.33%), carbohydrate content (71.85 ± 0.25%), ash content (3.15 ± 0.13%), crude fibre (1.39 ± 0.40%), protein content (11.15 ± 0.60%), and crude fat (5.02 ± 0.35%). Biomass characteristics included water absorption capacity (51.51 ± 3.23%), density (0.93 ± 0.03 g/ml), cellulose (9.42 ± 0.12%), hemicellulose (20.77 ± 0.19%), lignin (10.92 ± 0.09%), and pectin (9.74 ± 0.10 mg/kg). Conclusion: The detailed composition analysis of Cori fibres suggests their significant potential for various industrial applications, particularly in areas where fibre strength, absorbency, and density are critical.