Water Hyacinth Fiber Separator Process for Handicraft Manufacturer

Water hyacinths is a rapidly growing and wide spreading weed in water which obstructs water transport, drainage, and causes waterlogging. Therefore, utilization of water hyacinth as materials for handicrafts is the one way to solve this problem. The objectives of this study were to studied techniques used for separating water hyacinth fiber, and to compare the qualities of water hyacinth fiber as mixed with banana stalk fiber in different proportions; In this experiment, seven ratio (water hyacinth fiber : banana stalk fiber) percentage are: 00:100; 80:20; 60:40; 50:50; 40:60; 20:80; 100: 00 were compared; to comparing of the strength of the fibers; different weights were suspended until the fibers was tear, and also compare water absorption properties the fiber samples. In compare water absorption property, fibers were oven at 50°C for 24 hours and weight. The treated fibers were then immersed in distilled water at room temperature for 24 hours and the fibers were weighed every 3, 6, 9 and 24 hours. Each sample was performed 3 repetitions. From result of the study showed that 70 kg each raw material weight could produce 0.54 kg of water hyacinth fiber and 3.01 kg of banana fiber. From the result, it can be concluded that the 50:50 ratio with egg-white color and slightly soft surface is the suitable ratio for produce handicraft; which able to withstand the tensile force of 14.7N, and 7 times water absorption property. This studying can be another way to reduce the amount of water hyacinths and banana clover by using them to create valuable products and contribute a green economy in the future.