Question

Coir is obtained from the Kapok Tree. Explain.

Answer 1

Hint: Coir is a fibrous material found between the hard, internal shell and the outer coat of a coconut. It is utilized in products like floor mats, doormats, brushes and mattresses.

Complete answer: ’Kapok’ is an English term which is used in British countries for both the tree and the cotton-like fluff obtained from its seed pods. The tree is cultivated for the seed fibre, especially in south-east Asia. The flowers are one of the most important sources of nectar and pollen for honey bees and bats. Coir is a plant fibre obtained from the kapok tree. It is created by weaving coconut fibre. It is specifically utilized in manufacturing doormats and carpets as it is rough. In earlier times, coconuts were left to cure in water for many months (or in brine for the maximum period for white fibres) then the coir was extracted. But with technology, use of coconut husk defibering machines increased. Typically, the white fibre or coir is spun into yarn. This yarn is then used in the manufacture of rope and, due to its strong resistance towards saltwater, in fishing nets. Brown coir is stronger and more widely used as compared to white coir. The coir is used in manufacturing daily used substances which includes sacking, brushes, doormats, rugs, mattresses, insulation panels, etc. Coir is extracted from tissues surrounding the seed of the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera), which is cultivated on ten million ha of land throughout the tropical season.

Note: The waste product from milling the coir is peat or pith which makes high-quality mulch and fertilizers. Coir peat compost developed from the waste is excellent organic manure and soil conditioner. India and Sri Lanka are also the main exporters, followed by Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and the Philippines