At De La Salle University, abaca–a native plant fiber more commonly associated with ropes and tea bags–is being reengineered to create more resistant and sustainable protective materials for use by healthcare workers, soldiers, and even astronauts. The research offers a glimpse into how locally-sourced materials may contribute to solving complex challenges on a global scale.

Abaca, derived from Musa textilis and primarily grown in the Philippines, has long been valued for its durability. With the use of nanotechnology, the potential of this robust and readily available indigenous fiber is being studied by a team of DLSU researchers from the Department of Physics.

Leading the team is Dr. Gil Nonato Santos, chair of the department and head of the University’s iNano Research Facility and the Solid State Physics Laboratory. His work spans nanomaterials, sensing technologies, and applied physics, with a particular focus on developing functional materials from local resources.

Together with his colleagues Dr. Christopher Que, Dr. Tonibeth Lopez, and Dr. Normie Lacubtan, he is investigating the potential of abaca for high-value uses in the fields of medicine and engineering.

“The strength of the Philippine abaca can be comparable to certain metals in terms of the ultimate tensile strength. Depending on the threading and the weaving of the material, we can vary the strength of the material,” he explains.

“Because of the abundant supply of abaca—and we are the number one supplier of abaca in the world–I saw the potential of this material for different applications, especially for protecting our health workers in the field, specifically from x-rays,” Santos says. 

He adds that it also has the potential for military applications as a protective shield, as well as for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding. “For example, when a cell phone signal weakens due to interference, that is a form of electromagnetic interference shielding.”

Exploring nanotechnology

The team’s research involves identifying which varieties of Philippine abaca are best suited for specific applications, Santos shares. This process helps in identifying the types that are more effective in radiation shielding. Their particular recipe allows the material to function as a composite, combining the flexibility of natural fibers with the protective properties of engineered particles.

Receiving support from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) through the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) and the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD), the researchers are currently conducting testing and validation, in coordination with the Philippine Fiber Industry Development Authority (PhilFIDA). They are also working with the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute to evaluate how the composites perform under different levels of radiation exposure. 

For further studies, researchers can explore the composite’s potential applications in defense and communications, particularly in environments where electromagnetic interference can affect signal transmission, Santos points out.

A sustainable alternative

Beyond its technical and medical applications, the research carries significant socioeconomic and environmental implications. Unlike conventional shielding components that rely on heavy metals, abaca-based composites offer a biodegradable and renewable alternative, he points out. 

He adds that the material’s natural growth cycle—particularly in regions like Catanduanes—also provides a steady supply, creating opportunities to strengthen local agricultural economies. By shifting from raw fiber exports to high-value manufacturing, the research could increase farmers’ incomes and expand rural industries.

Santos highlights the broader vision, “Why not use indigenous material to protect our health workers, our security and military personnel, and even astronauts? It naturally grows so it replenishes itself. At the same time, we support local communities and promote sustainability.”

SDG: 4,9,12,17