ajute

Ajute, also spelled jute, is a natural fiber obtained from the bast of two tropical shrubs in the genus Corchorus, chiefly Corchorus capsularis and Corchorus olitorius. The fiber is valued for its strength, durability, and biodegradability and is among the world’s oldest and most affordable vegetable fibers. It is typically golden-brown in color and can be bleached or dyed for various textile and industrial uses.

Ajute is primarily cultivated in the Indian subcontinent, with Bangladesh and India as the leading producers. Other significant producers include China, Myanmar, Thailand, and several African nations. The crop requires warm, humid conditions, well-drained soils, and abundant rainfall; plants grow to about 2–3 meters and are harvested after about 4–6 months.

Processing involves retting to loosen the bark, followed by decortication to separate fibers. The fibers are then scotched, hackled, and spun into yarns or used directly in nonwoven and composite applications. The fiber’s length and fineness determine its industrial uses.

Ajute is widely used for burlap and hessian sacks, bagging, carpeting backing, twine, and geotextiles, as well as in paper production and upholstery. It is valued for being biodegradable and relatively low-cost, offering a more sustainable alternative to some synthetic fibers, though production is labor-intensive and prices can fluctuate.