Recent developments in pineapple (Ananas comosus L.) based biocomposites and their potential industrial applications:...

The improper disposal of agricultural residues is an environmental concern, with agro-industrial pineapple residues emerging as a significant contributor, particularly in tropical regions where pineapple cultivation is widespread. Large quantities of pineapple leaves, stems, and peels are often discarded in landfills, leading to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Among these wastes, Pineapple Leaf Fiber (PALF) has gained attention due to its favorable physical, chemical, and mechanical characteristics, which present promising opportunities for sustainable material development. This review highlights the potential of PALF in the fabrication of natural fiber-reinforced polymer composites. Owing to its high cellulose content, tensile strength, and biodegradability, PALF serves as an ideal reinforcement material that can replace synthetic fibers in various engineering applications. To enhance fiber-matrix compatibility, several treatment techniques such as biochemical, thermochemical, and physicochemical modifications are employed. These treatments improve adhesion and dispersion within the polymer matrix, resulting in composites with enhanced mechanical properties and durability. Furthermore, the review discusses current advancements and limitations in utilizing pineapple waste for value-added applications, emphasizing challenges related to large-scale processing, economic feasibility, and supply chain logistics. By converting pineapple waste into functional materials, this approach supports environmental conservation and aligns with global initiatives on circular economy and sustainable development.