Elaboración de un sustituto de cuero a partir de la fibra de la cáscara de coco (Cocos nucifera)

Abstract

Conventional leather production involves significant environmental challenges. This environmental impact is exacerbated by the elimination of most of the components of the raw hide, where only approximately 20% of its weight is used, leaving a considerable 80% as discarded residue. The objective of the present research was focused on the elaboration of a leather substitute from coconut (Cocos nucifera) shell fiber. The methodology was oriented towards the experimental, incorporating a qualitative approach that sought to present an alternative to traditional leathers and to give a good use to organic wastes, implementing a 2k experimental factorial design in order to discover the optimal formulation for the production of leather from coconut shell fiber. The mechanical characterization of the different formulations of the leather substitute was applied in a completely randomized manner (DCA) to analyze the results of the different tests of tensile strength, elongation percentage and lastometry established by the International Union Physical Test (IUP). For the leather substitute made with coconut shell fiber, encouraging values were obtained corresponding to the best treatment (T1) with a tension of 11.87 MPa, 32.86% for the elongation percentage, and 10.05 mm for the lastometry. In addition, 1.72% was obtained in the ash test and 3.38% for moisture content, complying with IUP 4, 6 and 9 corresponding to tear strength, leather grain strength and leather thickness. In this context, it is concluded that the production of leather substitutes using coconut shell fibers is a promising option to replace traditional leather, mainly in its application in accessories. This innovation allows the utilization of fibers from different wastes, while contributing to reduce environmental pollution.