Making prosthetic sockets more sustainable using pineapple leaves

Prosthetic sockets are a vital component of artificial limbs, connecting the prosthesis to the human body. Traditionally, they’re made from carbon fibre composites—strong, but costly to produce, environmentally harmful, and risky for workers’ health during manufacturing. Eric Gaba, postdoctoral researcher at the VUB, is working on a greener solution: prosthetic sockets made from the natural fibres found in pineapple leaves! These fibres, combined with a plant-based eco-resin, offer a biodegradable and affordable alternative, especially for prosthetic centres in low- and middle-income countries. Watch the video to discover how pineapple leaves not only reduce the health implications and carbon footprint but also help make this technology more globally accessible.