Utilization of Banana Sheath Agricultural Waste for the Fabrication of Biodegradable Plant Pots

Department of Farm Mechanics, Faculty of Agriculture, Kasetsart University, 50 Ngam Wong Wan Rd, Lat Yao Chatuchak Bangkok 10900, Thailand

^* Corresponding author: agrspks@ku.ac.th

Abstract

This study aimed to utilize banana sheath agricultural waste to fabricate biodegradable plant pots. The production incorporated both fibrous and finely ground forms of banana sheath blended with coconut husk, veimicompost. and starch-based adhesive. Eight formulations were developed: using fibrous banana sheaths and finely ground banana sheaths. The mixtures were then molded into cylindrical pots using a hydraulic press. The physical and chemical properties of the pots were evaluated to determine their suitability for use. The findings revealed that the fibrous banana sheath pot with a ratio of 3:0:0:2 showed a water disintegration rate of 2.54% and a pH of 7.3, indicating its suitability for use in plant display settings. This formulation contained nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium at concentrations of 0.35%, 0.28%, and 3.76%, respectively. In contrast, the pot made from finely ground banana sheath at a ratio of 2:3:3:12 exhibited a higher water disintegration rate of 13.69% and pH of 7.73. making it more suitable for direct planting in soil. This formulation had higher nutrient contents, with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium values of 0.83%, 0.53%. and 4.33%. respectively. Furthermore, both types of pots showed good durability, withstanding drop tests from a height of 75 cm. without any visible damage.