Solichin

Natural Cellulose Fiber from Mendong Grass (Fimbristylis globulosa)

The global waste problems resulting from the use of synthetic fiber are becoming increasing environmental concerns. It would be better if the synthetic fibers give way to the natural fibers as renewable resources for environmental sustainability. New sources of natural fibers are being developed in recent years as natural fibers offer many advantages over synthetic fibers. Mendong grass is one of the natural sources of fiber. It is easy to grow and cultivate, and it offers several harvests from one plantation. The fiber has found many applications for small-scale industries and helps in economic welfare of small farmers. This chapter provides a general overview of mendong grass cultivation and obtaining fiber. The chemical, physical, mechanical, and thermal properties and prospective application of the mendong fiber are also presented.