Structural – Functional Characterization of Natural Indigo – Dyed Banana Fiber – Cotton Ikat Woven Fabrics for Sustainable Textile Applications

This study evaluated the performance of a sustainable woven fabric made from natural indigo – dyed banana fiber – cotton Ikat. The fabric exhibited a medium weight of 218.00 ± 0.77 g/m2 with warp and weft yarn densities of 61.00 ± 0.00 and 26.00 ± 0.63 threads / inch, respectively. It demonstrated strong directional tensile performance, achieving 550 N in the warp and 260 N in the weft direction. The fabric offered high UV protection, blocking 97.9% UVA and 99.2% UVB. Colorfastness ratings were favorable: 4.00 ± 0.67 for light and washing, and 4.50 ± 0.41–4.50 ± 0.33 for acidic/alkaline perspiration. Additional physical properties included air permeability of 16.65 cm3/cm2/s, abrasion resistance exceeding 10,000 cycles, and pilling resistance of grade 4. Although no antimicrobial activity was observed, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses confirmed the structural integrity of the material. Overall, the fabric demonstrates strong potential as a sustainable textile. However, comprehensive validation for apparel applications requires further evaluation of long-term laundering durability, dimensional stability, and wearer comfort, alongside future investigations into alternative blend ratios and weave structures.