Turning Corn Husks into Sustainable Textiles

Date:8 April 2014

Country: United States

Application

• Sustainable Textile Production: Using corn husks to create eco-friendly yarn for fabric, reducing reliance on synthetic fibers.

Description

A team at the University of Nebraska is developing textiles from corn husks by separating lignocellulose fibers and spinning them into yarn. This innovation aims to create sustainable fibers to meet the growing global demand for textiles. The project leverages agricultural waste, particularly corn husks, which are more stretchable than other cellulose fibers. The initiative seeks to reduce reliance on synthetic fibers and promote a circular economy by utilizing farm byproducts.

 

 

Pathway Description:

The process involves separating lignocellulose fibers from corn husks, which are complex and woody biopolymers. These fibers are then spun into yarn, making them suitable for textile production. The process leverages agricultural waste, specifically corn husks, which are typically discarded after harvest. The resulting yarn can be blended with other fibers like polyester for improved stretchability.