Step–wise multi–scale deconstruction of banana pseudo–stem (Musa acuminata) biomass and morpho–mechanical characterization of extracted long fibres for sustainable applications

•A gradual deconstruction process for the determination of the chemical composition of the banana stem is described.•A method for the production of long fibres at approx. 60% yield is shown.•The mechanical behaviour of the long fibres is assessed.•Mechanical properties of long fibres compare favorably to those of similar fibres reported in the literature.