This study introduces a sustainable, animal‐free leather alternative derived from pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) and enhanced with natural turmeric dyeing. Addressing the environmental challenges posed by conventional leather production—such as high water usage, toxic chemical discharge, and reliance on animal hides—this research utilizes agricultural waste materials and eco‐friendly processing to fabricate bio‐based leather‐like materials. Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) was employed as a film‐forming matrix to support structure, while polylactic acid (PLA) served as a biodegradable binder, reinforcing the composite’s strength and flexibility. Turmeric dyeing contributed antimicrobial functionality and vibrant coloration, enhancing the material’s appeal and safety. The process avoided petroleum‐based binders or synthetic additives, supporting a fully bio‐based, eco‐friendly approach. A Box–Behnken experimental design was applied to optimize key formulation parameters, including PVA concentration, PALF ratio, and PLA binder content. The optimized sample exhibited a tensile strength of 159 N and tear strength of 45 N, demonstrating mechanical performance suitable for lightweight applications such as fashion accessories and leather goods. The findings highlight the potential of PALF‐based materials as an eco‐friendly alternative to traditional leather, combining circular economy principles with functional performance.
Wudu et al. (Wed,) studied this question.