Pineapple residues for high quality fiber and other applications : with a case study from Costa Rica

This report describes pineapple residues as potential feedstock for new carbon-based materials, especially the use of pineapple leaf fiber (PALF) in textiles. Using Costa Rica as a case study, five application domains of residues are identified. Cascading of different valorization options has the potential to increase resource use efficiencies and to reinforce the economic viability of individual valorization options. Various bottlenecks hampering a biomaterial transition in Costa Rica are identified, and a R&D agenda to address these bottlenecks.