Chapter 1 - Coir fiber: Geographic distribution and cultivation

Abstract

The recent growth and development of coconut fruits–derived coir fiber–based value-added products has made it worth to study regarding the cultivation, geographic distribution, and extraction methodology of coir materials. The coconut tree (Cocos nucifera) is a member of the palm tree family (Arecaceae), which is extremely important for the millions of coastal and island peoples living in humid tropical regions to support their livelihoods from multidisciplinary uses. The expression ``coconut'' (or the ancient ``cocoanut'') can cover the whole seed, coconut palm, or fruit, which is botanically recognized as drupe, not a nut. The noun comes from the ancient Portuguese word coco meaning ``head'' or ``skull,'' after the three indentations on the coconut shell that resemble some prominent features. Interestingly, more than 93 countries all over the world are growing coconut fruits and associated products depending on geographic locations. Coir fibers are obtained from the fibrous layer that covers the coconut fruits. The popularity of coir fibers is increasing as they are economical, eco-friendly, renewable, and biodegradable materials. The composite manufacturers and researchers are also considering and utilizing this fiber as a prominent source of crude material to manufacture sustainable and high value-added products. In this chapter, the production of coconut fiber, its ecological and economic properties, utilization, and usage trends in the world along with geographic distribution would be discussed elaborately.