Optimization of Alkaline Degumming Process of Hemp Fibers

Abstract

The optimization of the alkaline degumming process of the hemp fibers was carried out in this study. The degumming parameters were optimized in such a way that the minimum strength loss of hemp fibers and elementary fibers was achieved. The main aim of this research work was to individualize and segregate the fibers uniformly by the removal of lignin content. Hemp single fiber tensile strength was carried out before and after the degumming process to determine the strength loss. It was carried out using a padding mangle and steamer technique. The best-suited alkali degumming method was investigated with the optimized parameters of heating time 45 min and heating temperature 120°C. The chemicals that provided the finest results were sodium hydroxide, wetting agent and hydrogen peroxide.

Keywords

• natural fiber
• industrial hemp fiber
• degumming process
• alkali treatment