A Novel Approach of Low Alkali Degumming of Ramie

ABSTRACT A novel low alkali-based chemical recipe was formulated for controlled degumming of ramie (Boehmeria Nivea L.) fiber to maintain residual gum 7–8% aiming at to improve yarn tensile performance. The method includes the application of H2SO4 at a low concentration (2%) followed by a treatment with a low concentration of NaOH (6%) on the weight of fiber. Treatment condition and chemical formulation were varied to obtain degumming to the extent of 20–22%. Degummed fiber tenacity (52.33 cN/tex), extensibility (3.85%) and modulus (2263.7 cN/tex) were found to be notably high. The gum remained in fiber surfaces produces resultant yarn of very high strength breaking load (28.7 N), tenacity (20.9 cN/tex), initial modulus (782.9 cN/tex) specific work of rupture (3.0 mJ/tex.m) with low extensibility (2.95%). COD, BOD, TDS, and pH of the generated effluent was 927 mg/L, 328 mg/L, 680 ppm, 8.7 only. Cost of chemical for the treatment was as low as USD $ 0.2/kg of fiber. Comparison of ramie and jute yarn properties suggests that ramie may be used for high-performance industrial uses where high strength, as well as high modulus, is essentially needed viz., conveyor belts, tire cords, and composites.

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