A Comparative Study on Chemical and Biological Methods for Partial ‎Degradation of Lignocellulose in Coconut Coir Fibers

  • Authors

    • Sowmini. N Department of Bioscience, Sri Krishna Arts and Science College, Coimbatore, India
    • Yogavarshini D. N Department of Biotechnology, PSG College of Arts & Science, Coimbatore, India
    • Senthil Kumar J Department of Biotechnology, PSG College of Arts & Science, Coimbatore, India
    https://doi.org/10.14419/nxncvx93

    Received date: May 8, 2025

    Accepted date: July 12, 2025

    Published date: July 22, 2025

  • Coir Bristle Fibers; Bacillus SPP; Pseudomonas SPP; Chemical Degradation; Biological Degradation

  • Abstract

    Coir bristle fibers were known for their lignin content and hardness level; they are commonly used in floor mats ‎and traditional ropes. This research proposes the application to soften and partially degrade the coir fibers ‎through an eco-friendly approach, providing a more sustainable alternative to chemical treatment. The coir ‎bristle fibers were pretreated, washed, and sterilized mechanically to eliminate surface contaminants. The ‎organism that exhibited the property of lignocellulose degradation was further considered throughout this ‎research. The isolated and highly efficient strains were subjected to biochemical characterization followed by their ‎treatment against the identified bristle coir fibers. Based on the incubation time, the post-treatment included ‎neutral washing and drying of the fibers, and a comparative analysis was performed among the two identified ‎strains. The Bacillus, Pseudomonas spp were cultured and inoculated into the fibers under controlled conditions, ‎and based on the degradation results obtained, Bacillus spp showed better results than Pseudomonas spp. ‎Hence, Bacillus spp was considered for a high-throughput technique as a 16S RNA sequence to arrive at ‎species-level identification. This eco-friendly treatment lowers the environmental impact of fiber softening and ‎enhances the physical characteristics of coir bristle fibers for advanced applications. The new method shows a ‎promising route to the biotechnological valorization of coir and paves the way to integrate coir into ‎biodegradable composites and sustainable textiles‎.

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  • How to Cite

    N , S. ., D. N, Y. ., & J, S. K. (2025). A Comparative Study on Chemical and Biological Methods for Partial ‎Degradation of Lignocellulose in Coconut Coir Fibers. International Journal of Basic and Applied Sciences, 14(3), 216-221. https://doi.org/10.14419/nxncvx93