Chemical Evaluation of Leaf Fibre Residues from Tropical Tree Legumes—a Wealth in Social Perspective

SYNOPSIS Leaf fibre residues obtained as a by-product during bulk extraction of leaf protein meal from three tropical forest trees viz. Albizzia procera Benth., Dalbergia sisso Roxb. and Delonix regia Raf. were analysed for their chemical and mineral composition. The fibres were found to consist of lignin, α-cellulose, pentosan, lipids, minerals, etc. and were similar in chemical nature. The data were compared with those of other lignocellulosic wastes and agricultural by-products like straw, husk, bagasse, jute stick, fibres, wood etc., which are commercially used in the preparation of feed, pulp, particle board, paper and composts.