It might come as an astonishing surprise to many, but interestingly, a way has been found to change coconut husks into automotive interiors by the researchers at Baylor University.

As per reports, it is possible to make trunk liners, floorboards and car-door interior covers using fibres from the outer husks of coconuts, replacing the synthetic polyester fibres typically used in composite materials.

Walter Bradley, who is leading the research said that many would question that why coconuts have been used for this purpose. He clarified, “We knew coconuts were abundant — about 50 billion grown a year. But 96% of those coconuts are grown by poor farmers, not big plantations. We wanted to figure out a way to make things better for them, to create a viable new market for them.”

It should be noted here the mechanical properties of coconut fibres are as good as or better than synthetic or polyester fibres and furthermore they are also the stuff of the greenest dreams besides being inexpensive.

Bradley said, “They’re better for the environment because the coconut husks would have otherwise been thrown away. Coconuts also do not burn well or emit toxic fumes, which are crucial in passing 10 safety-performance tests required for commercial applications.”