Agricultural Waste to Potential High-Performance Fibers: Impact of Dry and Wet Pretreatment on Extraction and Properties of Novel Fibers from Grapevine Shoots.

This study focuses on Vitis vinifera (grape), one of the world's largest crops and an ancient dietary staple, for the development of novel biodegradable and sustainable fibers. Grapevine shoots, post-pruning, are an abundant agricultural residue with little economic value as they are mainly used as fuel or fertilizer. The prime objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of dry and wet pre-treatment on the extraction and physical properties of novel lignocellulosic fibers derived from both the bark and core of waste grapevine shoots, respectively. It was found that, as compared to the dry pre-treatment, extraction done after wet pre-treatment required lower chemical concentrations as well as time and still enhanced fiber length, fineness, strength, and elongation. Physical characterization showed that compared to traditional fibers including jute, flax, kenaf, hemp, ramie, sisal, and coir, these extracted fibers demonstrated superior elongation, tenacity, and length characteristics while maintaining a moderate and comparable fineness. These distinct features make them appropriate for potential manufacturing of yarn and composite materials. Furthermore, the valorization of this otherwise discarded agricultural waste into marketable goods would reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with its decomposition.