IMPROVEMENT OF KENAF YARN FOR APPAREL APPLICATIONS

A Thesis
Submitted to the Graduate Faculty of the
Louisiana State University and
Agricultural and Mechanical College
in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the degree of
Master of Science
in
The School of Human Ecology

by
Ting Zhang
B.S., Beijing University of Chemical Technology, 2000
August 2003

Acknowledgements

I am deeply indebted to my advisor, Dr. Jonathan Yan Chen, for his outstanding
advice throughout the years. Without his help, this work would not be possible. I would
like to thank Dr. Grace Namwamba and Ms Devona Dixon for their constant support.
Funds for this research were provided by Southern University through a USDA 1890
Capacity Building Grant. I would also like to thank Dr. Ioan Negulescu and Dr. Micheal
Keenan, for their advice and patience is appreciated. I must thank our friends at USAD ,
Southern Regional Research Center, Ms. Linda Kimmel, Dr. Xiaoliang Cui, Dr. Tim
Calamari, and Mr. Joe Block for their valuable help to processing the yarns and fabrics. I
would also like to acknowledge Dr. John Ivan Dickson at Cotton Fiber Lab. Lastly, I
would like to thank my family for their support.

ii

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements............................................................................................................. ii
List of Tables ...................................................................................................................... v
List of Figures .................................................................................................................... vi
Abstract ............................................................................................................................ viii
Chapter1 Introduction ......................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Statement of the Purpose......................................................................................... 3
1.2 Hypotheses .............................................................................................................. 3
1.3 Research Objectives ............................................................................................ 3
1.4 Justification ............................................................................................................. 3
1.5 Definitions ............................................................................................................... 4
Chapter 2 Review of Literature........................................................................................... 5
2.1 Introduction of Kenaf .............................................................................................. 5
2.2 Uses of Kenaf .......................................................................................................... 7
2.2.1 Traditional Use of Kenaf ...................................................................................... 7
2.2.2 Value Added Produces from Kenaf...................................................................... 7
2.3 Kenaf Fiber ............................................................................................................ 10
2.3.1 General Properties of Kenaf Fibers .................................................................... 10
2.3.2 Separation of Kenaf Fibers ................................................................................. 12
2.3.2.1 Mechanical Separation..................................................................................... 12
2.3.2.2 Bacterial Retting .............................................................................................. 14
2.3.2.3 Chemical Retting ............................................................................................. 15
2.3.2.4 Sugar Cane Separation Method ....................................................................... 16
2.3.3 Softening............................................................................................................. 18
2.4 Yarn and Fabric Processing ................................................................................... 19
2.5 Mercerization......................................................................................................... 22
2.6 Bleaching ............................................................................................................... 23
2.7 Analysis ................................................................................................................. 24
2.7.1 Fiber and Yarn Properties................................................................................... 24
2.7.2 Properties of Kenaf Content Fabrics................................................................... 26
2.7.3 Image Analysis ................................................................................................... 26
2.8 Summary................................................................................................................ 27
Chapter 3 Methodology .................................................................................................... 28
3.1 Introduction............................................................................................................ 28
3.2 Materials, Reagents, and Equipment ..................................................................... 28
3.3 Experiment Design ................................................................................................ 29
3.4 Chemical Procedure............................................................................................... 29
3.5 Mechanical Procedure ........................................................................................... 30
iii

3.6 Analysis ................................................................................................................. 31

3.6.1 Fiber Characterization ........................................................................................ 31
3.6.2 Yarn Characterization......................................................................................... 32
3.6.3 Fabric Characterization....................................................................................... 34
3.6.4 Statistical Analysis.............................................................................................. 35
Chapter 4 Results and Discussion................................................................................... 38
4.1 Kenaf Fiber Testing .............................................................................................. 38
4.1.1 Photomicrograph Comparison ............................................................................ 38
4.1.2 Physical Properties of the Fibers ....................................................................... 40
4.2 Kenaf Yarn Spinning ............................................................................................. 42
4.2.1 Blending Ratio .................................................................................................... 42
4.2.2 Carding Loss....................................................................................................... 43
4.2.3 Kenaf Yarn Spinnability..................................................................................... 44
4.2.4 Kenaf Yarn Structure.......................................................................................... 46
4.2.5 Kenaf Yarn Strength ........................................................................................... 49
4.3 Fabric Properties.................................................................................................... 49
4.3.1 General Description ............................................................................................ 49
4.3.2 KAWABATA Testing ........................................................................................ 52
Chapter 5 Conclusions and Suggestions for Further Work .............................................. 69
5.1 Conclusions ........................................................................................................... 69
5.2 Suggestions for Further Work ............................................................................... 69
References......................................................................................................................... 71
Vita.................................................................................................................................... 77

iv

List of Tables

Table 1 The chemical solution and boiling time of the treatments....29

Table 2 Physical Properties of Kenaf Fibers with Different Treatment.....40
Table 3 KAWABATA Testing Data for the fabrics from open-end rotor spun yarns...56
Table 4 KAWABATA Testing Data for the fabrics from open-end rotor spun yarns...57
Table 5 MANOVA Testing Data-- Value of p<0.05..58

List of Figures

Figure 2-1. Pictures of Kenaf Field6

Figure 2-2 Structures of Kenaf Plant.6
Figure 2-3. Kenaf Fiber Image ......................................................................................... 11
Figure 2-4. Schematic of Stick Machine and Trash Master ............................................. 13
Figure 2-5. Schematic of Tibly Cane Separator.17
Figure 2-6. Schematic of the Modified Card .................................................................... 20
Figure 3-1. Spinlab High Volume Instrument System ..................................................... 33
Figure 3-2. Instruments of Kawabatas Evaluation System ............................................. 36
Figure 3-3. Shear: Hand Calculation ................................................................................ 37
Figure 4-1. SEM image of kenaf Fiber with Three Treatments........................................ 39
Figure 4-2. Fiber Loss by Treatment and Blend Level..................................................... 45
Figure 4-3. SEM pictures of cotton yarns from different spinning methods.................... 47
Figure 4-4. SEM pictures of 25% kenaf blended yarns from different spinning methods 48
Figure 4-5. Kenaf/Cotton Blend Yarns Strength Properties ............................................. 50
Figure 4-6. Structures of Fabrics Knitted from Ring Spun Yarns and Open-end Rotor
Spun Yarn ...................................................................................................... 53
Figure 4-7. BendingProperties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics with Different Blending Ratio. 61
Figure 4-8. Shear Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics with Different Blending Ratio .... 61
Figure 4-9. Surface Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics with Different Blending Ratio . 62
Figure 4-10 Tensile Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics with Different Blending Ratio. 62
Figure 4-11 Compression Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics with Different Blending
Ratio.............................................................................................................. 63

vi

Figure 4-12 Bending Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Kenaf with Different
Chemical Treatment ...................................................................................... 63

Figure 4-13 ShearProperties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Kenaf with Different

Chemical Treatment ...................................................................................... 64

Figure 4-14 Surface Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Kenaf with Different
Chemical Treatment...................................................................................... 64

Figure 4-15 Tensile Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Kenaf with Different
Chemical Treatment...................................................................................... 65

Figure 4-16 Compression Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Kenaf with Different
Chemical Treatment...................................................................................... 65

Figure 4-17 Bending Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Yarns with Different Spun
Method.......................................................................................................... 66

Figure 4-18 Shear Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Yarns with Different Spun
Method.......................................................................................................... 66

Figure 4-19 Surface Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Yarns with Different Spun
Method .......................................................................................................... 67

Figure 4-20 Tensile Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Yarns with Different Spun
Method .......................................................................................................... 67

Figure 4-21 Compression Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Yarns with Different
Spun Method................................................................................................. 68

vii

Abstract

The objectives of the research are to determine the impact of the retting methods
and blending percentage on the properties of kenaf fiber as well as the yarns and fabrics
that contain kenaf, and to analyze and characterize kenaf fiber and yarns and fabrics that
contain kenaf in terms of physical properties, such as tensile strength, elongation,
evenness, absorbency and surface characteristics. In this research, kenaf fiber bundles
were treated by chemical methods and softened to improve fiber properties. The treated
fibers then were blended with cotton having 0, 10%, 25%, and 50% blending ratio and
spun into yarns with open-end rotor spinning and ring spinning. These yarns were
knitted into fabrics. Comparative analysis of the kenaf fiber in terms of fiber length, fiber
fineness, and fiber strength was done by Uster HVI, Uster Tensorapid, and Scanning
Electron Microscopy (SEM) techniques. The yarns were tested by Uster and SEM to
determine their strength, elongation and structure. Properties of the fabrics were tested by
KAWABATA System. It was found that after the chemical treatment, the fiber fineness,
softness and elongation at break were improved, but the fiber bundle strength and length
were decreased. Increasing the concentration of sodium hydroxide weakened the fiber
strength significantly. To the yarns, the more the kenaf contained, the weaker the yarn
and the fabric strength were, and the lower elongation the yarn and fabric have also.
Fabrics became stiffer when kenaf blending ratio was increased. Open-end Rotor spun
yarn and fabric exhibited a more even apparent but both were weaker than Ring spun
yarn and fabric.

viii

Chapter1 Introduction
Currently, one of the major challenges in the textile industry is a related
environmental problem. Textile industries are facing great pressure to reduce pollutant
emissions.

This drives textile manufactures to seek new approaches to producing

environmentally friendly products, such as recyclable and biodegradable textile materials.

More and more attention has been drawn to agricultural products, wastes, and derivatives
because of their renewability. One of the crops being investigated is kenaf, an old crop
with many uses. The idea of making fabrics from kenaf has been practiced since the
early 1990s. But the quality of kenaf fabric is not yet good enough for making apparel.
This project will help develop and refine methods of improving kenaf processing for
textile applications.
Kenaf is an annual crop that is native to Africa. Kenaf is being investigated as an
alternative crop for farmers in many states in the U. S., including Louisiana. Many enduse products made from kenaf, such as canvas, animal feeds sacking and bedding, paper,
fishing net and potting media [1]. The kenaf plant has two fiber types: the outer bark or
bast portion (40% of the plant) and the inner woody core material (60%)

[2]

. There are

many advantages of using kenaf fiber. Because a technology of separating kenaf core
and bark has been developed, there is a possibility of using the entire kenaf plant or its
separated parts. The bast fibers offer the advantage of renewability and biodegradability
that is essential for making environmentally friendly textile products. Kenaf production
is less costly and less time-consuming than other raw crops, given that it produces a high
yield with minimal use of chemicals [3].

Traditionally, bast and leaf fibers, especially jute, abaca, pineapple, and kenaf, have
been used for products, such as ropes, twine, and burlap. But natural fibers have become
more prevalent in fashion over the last decade. Bast natural fibers used for apparel
applications include ramie and milkweed fibers. They provide new aesthetic and physical
properties, such as high moisture regain, rendering the fabric being more comfortable.
Recently, jute and pineapple fibers have also been blended with polyester or cotton and
made into coarse fabrics. If processed properly, kenaf is more lustrous, has greater tensile
strength, and has greater resistance to rot when compared to jute.[4][5] It is shown that
kenaf has become a potential natural fiber source for both apparel and industrial
applications.
Research on kenaf fiber include the following: production and softening of kenaf
fibers, fabric production, characterization of the woven fabrics, production of non-woven
fabrics from kenaf, and development of products, such as furniture under lays, carpet
backing, and wall covering.[6][7] However, because of the coarseness and stiffness of the
fiber bundles, kenaf processing remains problematic. Also, kenaf single fibers are too
short for textile processing. These unfavorable properties have inhibited the production of
higher-quality yarns and fabrics that contain kenaf. Another problem is that raw kenaf
bast fiber bundles are too coarse and brittle to process through conventional textile
equipment.
Work has been done to develop methods for processing kenaf fibers. Investigation
of differences in fiber quality of kenaf varieties has been conducted. Various treatments
for obtaining soft and pliable fibers were screened and tested to determine the best
process for large-scale production.[8] Current research on kenaf is dealing with fiber

characterization, fabric performance and consumer acceptability of the fiber. But work
on yarn characterization and modification is limited.
1.1 Statement of the Purpose
The purpose of the research is to investigate effects of fiber extraction methods on
yarn spinnability and fabric quality of kenaf.
1.2 Hypotheses
Increasing either the concentration of NaOH or treatment time will weaken the
kenaf fiber.
Increasing the kenaf content will weaken the kenaf/cotton blended yarns and fabrics
and make them more hairy in appearance.
Open-end rotor spinning will produce more even kenaf/cotton blend yarns than
Ring spinning.
1.3 Research Objectives
Determine the impact of the retting methods on the properties of kenaf fiber.
Determine the impact of the blending percentage on the properties of the yarns and
fabrics that contain kenaf.
Aanalyze and characterize kenaf fiber and yarns and fabrics that contain kenaf fiber
in terms of physical properties, such as tensile strength, elongation, and surface
characteristics.
1.4 Justification
The procedures for yarn production were well developed for cotton. Physical
properties of kenaf differ from those of cotton. For example, kenaf fibers are very short
and therefore have to be spun in bundles. Also kenaf fibers are coarser and more brittle

than cotton. So it is necessary to blend kenaf with cotton in order to be able to use the
spinning machine, which is designed for longer and stronger staple fibers.
1.5 Definitions
Kenaf -- an annual plant considered to be an alternative fiber crop. It resembles
jute, but it is more lustrous and has greater tensile strength and greater resistance to rot.
Retting a wet process by which the bundles of cells in the outer layers of the stalk
are separated from nonfibrous matter by the removal of pectins and other gummy
substances.
Mercerization -- the treatment of fabrics or yarns with an alkali. The alkali causes
the fiber walls to swell and become round, thus increasing in strength, luster, and
absorbency.
Spinning -- the process of obtaining a yarn, using the rotation movement and the
difference in spin velocity of several shafts.
Twisting the process for refining. Depending on the nature of the application, the
emphasis is on an improved symmetry of the yarn, a specific yarn structure, an increase
in the strength of the yarn or a combination of different colors and materials.
Tenacity --a unit used to measure the strength of a fiber or yarn, usually calculated
by dividing the breaking force by the linear density.
Yarn Tex -- yarn fineness. It is the weight in grams of 1000 meter of yarn.

Chapter 2 Review of Literature

Kenaf is an ancient crop and has a long history of being planted and used by human
beings. It was considered as an alternative crop and the products from it were simple and
cheap. Because of its biodegradability and environmental compactability, the usage of
kenaf has increased. The purpose of this project is to improve the kenaf fiber quality, so it
can be used in apparel industry. The literature review will include an introduction to
kenaf, usage of kenaf, extracting, processing, and mercerization of kenaf fiber, and the
analysis methods used in previous experiments.
2.1 Introduction of Kenaf
Kenaf is a 4000-year-old crop that is native in ancient Africa. It is a member of the
hibiscus family (Hibiscus cannabinus L) and related to cotton and jute

[1]

. Kenaf is a

warm-season annual row crop well suited to the South and West of the United States,
including California, Mississippi, Texas, Georgia, Louisiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee
[2]

. Kenaf was first introduced to the United States on a commercial scale in the early

1940s as the jute fiber imports were cut off as a result of World War II [4] [5].
Kenaf has a single, straight, unbranched stem consisting of two parts: an outer
fibrous bark and an inner woody core. Kenaf grows quickly, rising to heights of 12-16
feet (4-5m) in a 4-5 month growing season and 25-35 mm in diameter [9][10]. The core is
the spongy tissue pith below the bark of the plant [4]. Figure 2-1 shows the kenaf plant
and its intersection. Raw kenaf fiber is obtained from the outer bark. To affect kenaf
fiber turnout, many agronomic practices can be manipulated; one method to increase the
bast: core ratio of kenaf is increasing planting density.

Figure 2-1 Pictures of Kenaf Field [10]

a.
b.
c.
d.
e.

Kenaf Stem Showing Bark, Kenaf Bast Fiber and Core Fiber
Kenaf Stem: Bark, Bast & Core Fiber x10
Cross Section: Bast & Core x30
Kenaf Core Cross Section, Stem without Bark and Bast Fibers
Kenaf Bast Fiber x40
Figure 2-2 Structures of Kenaf Plant [12]
6

2.2 Uses of Kenaf

2.2.1 Traditional Use of Kenaf
Kenaf has been cultivated in Egypt since around 4000 B.C. China also has actively
developed this plant and now is one of the largest kenaf producers in the world. Kenaf
has been used for thousands of years mainly to make cordage, rope, burlap cloth and fish
net due to its rot and mildew resistance

[1]

. Today, one of the major values of kenaf is

used on a limited scale to produce pulp and paper in some countries as the substitute for
[5] [10]

wood

. Kenaf offers many significant advantages in this application, including a

short harvestable period and no chlorine bleaching. Kenaf paper is stronger, whiter,
longer lasting, more resistant to yellowing, and it has better ink adherence than tree paper
[11] [13]

2.2.2. Value Added Produces from Kenaf

The stock of kenaf can be used almost entirely. Kenaf leaves and stems have a
potential as livestock feed. Dried leaves contain 30% crude protein

[4]

and are used as

vegetables in some part of the world. In recent years, with increasing concerns for
environmental protection, kenaf has found more applications. The breakthroughs and
advances in environmental technology have resulted from intensive testing and research
in the kenaf industry. Here are some examples:
Natural Fiber/Plastic Compounds
Natural fiber/plastic compounds, based on kenaf, can replace glass-reinforced
plastics in many applications, such as automotive industry, packaging, and
construction/housing. The compounds have the mechanical and strength characteristics of

glass-filled plastics but are less expensive and, in many instances, are completely
recyclable [12] [14].
The Automotive Industry
The 1996 Ford Mondeo (sold abroad) features interior automobile panels made of
kenaf fiber. Kenaf International supplies the fiber, which is processed by the supplier to
Ford.

The company expects that sales to European automobile manufacturers will

steadily increase, as the industry becomes comfortable with the product and the kenaf
products from KII Automotive Group are capable of meeting required demand [15].
Construction & Housing Industry
Kenaf/plastic compounds, molded into lightweight panels, can replace wood and
wood-based products in many applications. This product has the potential to be the first
economically priced plastic lumber that can be engineered for use as building materials in
housing industry [16].
In some cases, emphasis has centered in the utilization of core of the plant. Kenaf
core has been used as packaging material, animal bedding, oil sorbents, and poultry litter.
Food Packaging Industry
Pellets made from a kenaf/plastic compound can be molded into commercial food
storage containers and virtually any other product now made of plastic.
Non-food related packaging opportunities are also numerous, including bulk
chemical and pharmaceutical packaging; parts packaging in the electrical and electronics
industries; and disposable packaging for large consumer appliances. In every instance,
fiber composites have distinct technical and/or pricing advantages over plywood and/or
cardboard -- and are recyclable, as well [17].

 Oil & Chemical Absorbents

The core is very absorbent and one of its main uses is to clean up oil spills and
similar chemicals. One unique feature of Kenaf Absorb is that it absorbs oil before taking
on water; once oil is absorbed, the product floats on the surface, which makes collection
easier. This product is also non-toxic, non-abrasive and is more effective than traditional
remediants, like clay and silica. This product is distributed by Fisher-Stevens, Inc., for
use in Texas oil fields, but the product also absorbs gasoline, diesel, transmission fluid,
and coolant spills.
In addition to use by individuals for personal garages, bulk applications include:
clean-up operations in refineries, utility companies, land and sea spills, oil rigs, industries
that handle bulk storage terminals; and for military field refueling applications [18] [19].
Animal Bedding & Poultry Litter
Kenaf Bedding is sold in bags to farm and ranch supply stores and in bulk to large
buyers, such as stables, zoos, and poultry farms. This product has superior absorbency,
requires fewer changes, is cost competitive with most traditional litter and bedding
products comprised of wood shavings, saw dust or shredded paper [20].
Soil-free Potting Mix
This product competes with commercial potting soils and can also be custom-mixed
for different horticultural applications. KII has a long-term supply arrangement with a
nursery products wholesale business, Kinney Bonded Warehouse, based in Donna, TX.
Their "K-Mix" product, a blend of kenaf and peat moss, competes with commercial
mixes containing mostly peat moss or pine bark. KBW has a facility located adjacent to
the kenaf processing facility on the Kenaf Ranch [21].

2.3 Kenaf Fiber

2.3.1 General Properties of Kenaf Fibers
Raw kenaf fiber obtained from outer bark, is actually a bundle of lignocellulosic
fibers. The fiber bundle size depends on the number of ultimate cells in each bundle.
Most lignin is present between the ultimate cells. Kenaf contains approximately 65.7%
cellulose, 21.6% lignin and pectin, and other composition. Lignin must be extracted to
separate the fibers [22] [23] [24] [25].
The physical dimensions of the fiber is one of the most important factors in apparel
industry. Kenaf single fibers are only about 1-7 mm long and about 10-30 microns wide
thus too short for textile processing [3]. A specific average length is not used because of
the wide variability in the samples studied. Figure 2-3 shows the photomicrographs of an
individual kenaf fiber and fiber bundle [4] [26]. These are coarse, brittle, and not uniform
compared with cotton fiber, which makes them hard to process with conventional textile
or nonwoven fabric equipment. The Instrumental methods for grading cotton fibers do
not quite suitable to apply to kenaf fiber bundles [24]. These unfavorable properties also
have inhibited the development of higher-quality wovens or nonwovens containing kenaf
fibers.
The measurement of single fiber dimension can be achieved by various methods. A
large part of these differences is probably due to such factors as cultivars, location, and
climate, besides the differences in the techniques used for analyses. In addition, fiber
characteristics are also probably dependent on the maturity of the plant.
The most economical process is projection the image from a microscope on a wall
or on a board, so the fiber dimension can be measured manually or by a digitizer. By

10

using an electronic indicator, digitizing can be achieved by identifying both ends of the
fiber [27] [28].

Kenaf fiber Cross-section 3000

Kenaf fiber bundles

Figure 2-3. Kenaf Fiber Image [4]

The cellular structure of kenaf can be separated using dissociation method. The
target plant is treated with chemicals that can dissolve the middle components and allow
the fibers to become separated from one another. In some types of plants, the mild
maceration process will not completely dissociate to a single fiber unit, resulting in an
aggregate of fibers. These aggregates of fibers have the appearance of a single fiber.
There are many kinds of dissociation methods. The solvent used in Schulzes (1857)
method is a combination of various concentration of nitric acid with a small quantity of
potassium chlorate. The mixture is allowed to stand at room temperature or is heated
slightly to initiate the reaction. Jeffrey (1917) proposed a widely know alternative
method for milder treatment. The solvent is a mixture of equal portions of freshly
combined 8 to 10% nitric acid and chromic acid. Maceration at a cold temperature often
gives best results, but the mixture may be warmed slightly to haste the reaction [27] [29].
11

Generally speaking, the lengths kenaf fibers are shorter at the bottom of the stalk
and longer at the top. The increase in length from the bottom to the top was not gradual,
but S-shaped. There is more variation of the fiber length at the top of the stalk. Also, the
longest fibers are located at the top. On the other hand, different parts of a plant have
different chemical and physical properties. That is, the chemical composition and fiber
properties of plant tissue taken from the roots, stem, trunk and leaves are different. And
the chemical composition and fiber properties of plant tissue are also different at different
stages of the growing season [30]. Fiber length increased in the early part of the growing
cycle, and then decreased again as the plant matured [29] [31]. This may be an advantage in
harvesting fiber at some time earlier than from a mature plant.
2.3.2 Separation of Kenaf Fibers
The process of separating the long and short fibers depends on the method of
harvesting.

In frost-free regions, the kenaf stalk is cut while green with special

equipment. In cooler regions, the plant is typically frost killed and a natural drying of the
stalk occurs, making harvesting with conventional farm equipment possible.

The

separation equipment is designed to accommodate the raw material in either whole stalk
or chopped [32].
2.3.2.1 Mechanical Separation
There are many methods to separate the kenaf fibers. Mechanical separation of fiber
is a quite economical way. The bast kenaf fibers that separated most of the core material
are feed to the Rando Cleaner, a roller-type cleaner equipped with fine saw-tooth wire.
There are two kinds of Rando cleaner, stick machine and trash master. Standard stick
machine equipped with three 35.56-cm-diameter saws with and without Pelxiglas. The

12

trash master is a six-cylinder incline cleaner with 1.27cm space between grid bars and the
degree of incline may be different, for example, 30 or 45. Figure 2-3 shows the
standard stick machine and 30 degree trash master. In order to get the cleanest fiber, it is
necessary to process the bast fibers through both stick machine and trash master that
equipped with different saws and incline degree [4]. But the mechanically separated fibers
were too stiff for processing into yarns [33], so other methods for kenaf fiber separation
need to be developed.
In the procedure of separating kenaf into its two fraction, moisture content is a
significant predictor of final fiber content, in this case, moisture content of whole-stalk
kenaf and humidity of ambient air need to be tested carefully. Type and number of

Figure 2-4. Schematic of Stick Machine and Trash Master [4]

separation machinery should also be considered, for they decide the separation efficiency
and processing rate, the two very important parameters. By using drying or separation
during periods of low ambient humidity separation efficiencies of 95% to greater than
99% can be obtained. Whole-stalk kenaf above the moisture content of about 18-20% is
13

difficult to separate. Separation efficiency is low when the ambient humidity is above
60% and must be accomplished with the aid of drying

[31]

. The stick machine is more

efficient at fiber and core separation than the 6-cylinder cleaner. The slower process rate
can also increase separation efficiency [34].
2.3.2.2 Bacterial Retting
Bacterial retting also can be called natural retting.

This is done first by

decorticating the kenaf with a splitting machine, then retting the kenaf stalk in open
troughs. Water temperature is monitored and maintained at 30 2 C throughout the
process.

Staggered retting is the best method for obtaining uniform fibers with

immersion of the bases of stalks initially and then the whole stalks. This method is used
to prevent over retting of the upper stalk portion. The retting process takes from 5 to 22
days. Then the stalks are washed in hot tap water to remove the remaining shiny,
slippery, and green slime residue. And the product is air dried and combed with a soft
brush to obtain fibers [35].
Retting is commonly carried out for flax. It is a biological process, depending on
fermentation by anaerobic bacteria or dew-retting by aerobic fungi. Compared with flax,
kenaf fibers are highly lignified and are tightly bound in a lignified bundle. Lignin
occurred by 30 day after planting (DAP) in kenaf bast, and little change occurred beyond
60-90 DAP

[26]

. Lignin is a very recalcitrant natural material that resists microbial

degradation by most organisms, only the white rot fungi, a noted group of
microorganisms, can degrade this compound.

And the senescent material can be

extremely recalcitrant to biodegradation (retting) due to the production of lignins. In

most cases, kenaf is allowed to grow until it is killed by cold weather, and then the kenaf

14

is left to stand for some time for on-the-stalk retting. Fiber from an immature juvenile
plant is low in lignin, making it more suited for processing since there may be advantages
in reduced chemical and energy consumption during product processing. So harvesting
kenaf earlier than full maturity and perhaps before the cell walls are fully lignified is
necessary, because the

earlier harvested plants may provide bast ribbons with less

lignification so fibers could be better retted. While early harvesting may lead to a lower
yield, so there may be possible to harvest two crops in one season to give the same yield
of fiber but with much less lignin [27].
Bacterial retting is a simple and inexpensive process commonly used to separate
bark fibers and reduce the size of fiber bundles for use in textile processing. The natural
retting process is lengthy, but the resulted fibers have many desirable characteristics.
However, this retting method causes environmental problems, it gives very bad smell
during the retting, and therefore, other retting methods using chemicals were developed.
2.3.2.3 Chemical Retting
To perform a chemical retting the fibers are soaked along the entire length in 0.85%
Triton X-100 (used as wetting agent) at a fiber-to-liquid (w/v) ratio of 1:10 for one hour.
Then the barks are removed and immersed in 7% NaOH and 0.5% sodium bisulfate
(NaHSO3) (w/v) solution, and with this the fiber-to-liquid ratio is increased to 1:20.
Adding NaHSO3 is aimed to prevent strength loss in the fibers. This solution is boiled
for one hour, with the fibers submerged in it. The fibers are then removed and washed in
hot tap water until the water runs clear. Then the fibers are submerged in a 0.2% acetic
acid (v/v) solution for two minutes. The neutralized fibers are washed thoroughly in hot
tap water and finished with air-drying and combing the fiber [34][36].

15

The chemical retting is a quicker process than the natural, but it affects several
properties, including a loss in tenacity, color, and luster when compared to the bacterially
retted fibers. When environmentally possible the combination of the two methods can
reduce the retting time without negative effects on fiber quality. Several ways were tried
to improve the quality of chemical treatment and reduce the consumption of chemicals
[37]

.
A modified chemical treatment was proved to extract and soften the kenaf fibers

effectively. The degumming method that previously used for ramie process introduced
[Cl-] to the treatment. The procedure involves: immersion in acid solution, boiling in
NaOH solution of 14g/l for 140 minutes, bleaching with NaClO, and the concentration of
the [Cl-] is 1.0g/l, washing with acid, rinsing in water, refining in NaOH and Na2SO3 ,
washing in water, and air drying. The resulting fibers are finer and softer than the fibers
from the ordinary chemical treatment

[21] [38]

. Adding enzymes also helps a lot in fiber

extracting. The combination of chemical and enzymatic retting may improve retting and
reduce costs. A mixture of chelators and enzymes, such as Ultrazym and Flaxzyme
effectively retted stems [39].
2.3.2.4 Sugar Cane Separation Method
Because of the physical similarity of kenaf and sugarcane, a process initially
developed for the extraction of fiber bundles from the rind of sugar cane has been used on
kenaf. The biggest advantage of this process is that it is possible to reduce the size of
fiber bundles in cross section, so the bundles can have sufficient length for textile
applications.

The process includes mechanical separation, chemical extraction, and

steam explosion. By changing the extraction parameters, the final properties of the fiber

16

bundles can be controlled [40].

The mechanical separation is accomplished with the Tibly cane separator that
separates the pith from the rind by longitudinal splitting and rotation actions. Figure 2-5
shows the Schematic of the Tibly cane separator. Billets of kenaf stalks are guided onto
the splitter blade, which cuts the stalk into half shells. Each piece passes to a pith
removing station, which has two rollers. The inner roller is equipped with blades, while
the outer roller has spikes in order to guide the piece through this station. The removed
pith falls through a chute and is fed onto conveyor. In commercial processes, the rind
piece enters the next station, which removes the outer wax layer [41][42].
Chemical retting here uses low concentration alkaline solutions, high temperature,
and pressure. Mechanical agitation is involved in the reaction system. This mechanical
agitation can also be used as a tumbling motion that is responsible for a preferential

Figure 2-5. Schematic of Tibly Cane Separator [41]

17

reduction of cross-section rather than the length of the stalk [43].

In the third step, the kenaf fiber bundles are steam-exploded in order to further
reduce bundle cross-sections. Live steam with the pressure as high as 0.7 Mpa is injected
into the reactor and then the pressure is quickly released. The moisture in the fibers
evaporates suddenly, blowing them apart into dry separated fiber bundles [44].
2.3.3 Softening
The kenaf fibers are still too stiff to spun after retting. They must be softened. The
most commonly used method is chemical softening. The fibers are degummed by soaking
in 0.3% HCl for 30 minutes, washing, and then boiling in 1% NaOH for 1 hour. The
fibers are then scoured in 1% acetic acid and washed thoroughly in warm water and dried
[45]

. The fibers also can be softened using a commercial softener.

Treatment by batch emulsion has proved to be able to soften jute fibers. This is also

tried to extract the kenaf fiber. The emulsion contains 22% vegetable oil, 1,5% sodium
stearate, and 76.5% water. The fibers are soaked with fiber-to-liquid ratio of 1:10 for 5
hours under 127 Kpa pressure and the emulsion temperature is maintained at 90C. Then
the fibers are washed and air dried [46]. The fiber bundle size is reduced about 12%. The
main function of the emulsion treatment is to soften fibers because the lignin is partially
solved in the emulsion and water [24].
Enzyme treatments have been successful in softening cotton fabrics and
theoretically may be effective on fabrics with kenaf fibers. Two kinds of enzyme:
xylanase and laccase, were proved working. The fabric/enzyme liquor ratio was 1:80.
The temperature was raised to 75 C for 15minutes to denature the enzymes and the
maintained 50C during the 60minutes laundering. The fabrics were then cooled down

18

at 25C for 15minutes, and rinsed [39][47] [48].

2.4 Yarn and Fabric Processing
Research on fiber processing and characterization has significant implications.
Retted fiber characteristics determine the feasibility of using the retted fibers for apparel
applications.
The procedure for yarns spinning includes several steps. The most common
processes are opening, carding drawing and spinning. Usually the fibers are packed as
bales for shipment, so they need to be loosened and separated to make them easier for the
following processes. By passing between feed rolls to a rotation beater, they can reach
their maximum volume. Opening can also clean the fibers by removing dirt and other
impurities. The heavier, unwanted trash, such as leaves, seeds, twigs and insects, are
shaken and loosed from the fibers during the process [33] [47] [51].
Then the fibers are sent for carding. Carding machines are the most important
equipment to form fibrous web. Carding is aimed to further divide the fiber clumps with
minimum fiber breakage and remove impurities and fiber entanglements. A carding
machine consists of a set of cylinders (usually 4-7 number of cylinders) that have
different diameter, rotating speed and rotating direction. The surfaces of the cylinders are
full of saw-type teeth (needles) that make the fibers untangle and parallel with each other
[52]

. Carding can somewhat line up the fibers in one direction and remove the remaining

trash and extremely short fibers. The product from carding is sliver, a rope-like array of
fibers that are loosely held together

[33]

. In processing kenaf fiber, the carding machine

needs to be modified in order not to break the kenaf fiber, since the kenaf fiber is coarser,
longer, but weaker and more brittle than cotton fiber. Figure 2-6 shows a schematic of

19

one modified card

[53]

. After modification, the rotating speed is lower, and the distance

among the needles is larger. The card that was originally equipped with 448 teeth/in2 was
reclothed (changed the teeth) with 270 teeth/in2, and these teeth were longer and heavier
to handle the heavier kenaf fibers [52]. During the carding process, several different fibers
can be blended together to obtain uniform distribution.

Variation among the natural

fibers is a primary difficulty to spin them into yarns. In order to reduce the variation,
several card slivers are combined together.

This process is drawing.

The resulted

product of drawing is also called sliver. But the sliver is more uniform in size and
weight.

Figure 2-6. Schematic of the Modified Card [52]

A yarn is defined as a continuous strand of textile fibers, filaments or materials in a

form suitable for knitting, weaving, or otherwise intertworking to form a textile fabric [47].
Yarn has a direct impact on the quality of end-use products. Studies show that yarn

20

properties vary with the method of spinning. There are three major methods of
nufacturing spun yarn. They are ring spinning, open-end spinning, and air-jet spinning
[50]

.
Ring spinning must be coupled with a roving process. Roving actually is reducing

the size of the sliver into a product that will be suitable for the ring spinning process. In
ring spinning, a traveler system is the key part to twist fibers together. The traveler
rotates faster than the yarn is fed from the front drafting rolls and so twist has to be
inserted. The yarn is wound onto a bobbin and then has to be wound onto a larger
standard package [32].
Open-end and air-jet spinning both can use drawing sliver as direct input and the
finished yarn can be wound directly onto a ready to sell package. Rotor spinning is a
method of open-end spinning. Twist is inserted to hold the fibers together inside a coneshaped rotor (a high speed centrifuge). And the yarn is continuously removed from the
end of the rotor. In air-jet spinning, an air nozzle is used to tangle the fibers into a yarn.
The open-end spinning and air-jet spinning are more economical than the ring spinning.
But the yarn strength is lower and yarn surface quality tends to be harsher.

However,

open-end spinning has fewer defects and air-jet spun yarns have superior evenness and a
low tendency to pill [33].
There are other spinning methods, such as warp spinning, friction spinning, ply
spinning, cover spun spinning, and self-twisting spinning. If blended with cotton, kenaf
can be spun like other staple fibers using the cotton processing system. In recent years, a
number of staple spinning processes have been developed to shorten the number of steps
necessary for yarn preparation [47].

21

2.5 Mercerization
Textile fibers in the raw state are usually unsuitable for desired end uses. Finishes
are applied to fibers to improve their properties. Cellulosic fibers, such as kenaf, cotton,
jute, and ramie can be processed in similar ways because of their similar chemical
composition [54]. Mercerization is the treatment of fabrics or yarns, with an alkali. The
alkali causes the fiber walls to swell and become round, thus increasing in strength,
luster, and absorbency. Mercerization also enhances dyeability of cellulosic fibers. This
process may be applied at the yarn or fabric stage [53].
Mercerization can be achieved using sodium hydroxide or liquid ammonia. Sodium
hydroxide treatment consists of immersing the yarns or fibers in a solution of NaOH
(caustic soda) for short periods of time, usually less than four minutes. The material is
then treated with water or acid to neutralize the sodium hydroxide. If the material is held
under tension during this stage, it is kept from shrinking appreciably. If no tension is
applied, the material may shrink by as much as one-fourth. The effect of NaOH was first
discovered on cotton in 1844 by John Mercer. Liquid ammonia has been found to have
inherent advantages over sodium hydroxide because it acts faster and is cheaper due to
recovery of the reagent. This process has also been applied to other cellulosic fibers to
improve hand (feeling of hand) and fiber strength

[54]

Tensile properties and

extensibility of rotor-spun yarns were also improved significantly through mercerization

[55] [56]

Kenaf is a relatively new textile material. Some mercerization has been done on
kenaf or kenaf/cotton blend fiber. One experiment was done using American Association
of Textile Chemists and Colorists (AATCC) Test Method 89-1994 in a completely

22

randomized design. Response of the yarns to tension mercerization was evaluated by the
barium activity number. According to the test method, the barium activity number in the
range of 100-105 indicates no mercerization, above 150 indicates substantial
mercerization, and between 105-150 indicates incomplete reaction. Findings showed
there was no mercerization for most of the yarns since the number was between 58 and
106. The test was developed for cotton, so this may partially explain activity numbers
being lower than for cotton [57].
To solve this problem, another method was proposed. The principle of action was
based on the use of shear deformations combined with pressure. It has been shown that
under the conditions of plastic flow (movement of material under intense pressure) the
fibrous high-yield semifinished product produced from woody plants, due to its specific
structure, has better physicomechanical properties than that from the AATCC method. It
has been established that under the conditions of high pressure, when cellulose interacts
with hard alkali, alkaline cellulose is produced. This can be confirmed by X-ray analysis
data. The depth of cellulose mercerization processes under the conditions of plastic flow
does not depend on temperature [58]. The results showed that after treatment with
enzymes, bleach and mercerization, these fabric blends became more aesthetically
appealing and developed a soft hand [59].
2.6 Bleaching
The fiber bundles can be bleached, dyed and used for various textile applications.
However, unlike other pure cellulosic fibers (such as cotton), kenaf contains a relatively
high content of lignin (7.7%), hemicelluloses and other materials (pectin, waxes) in
addition to cellulose. Therefore, it is expected that the bleaching and dyeing behavior

23

will be different as compared to cotton. Bleaching leads to loss in the tensile strength of
the fibers, caused by partial removal of the non-cellulosic components that basically
constitute intercellular binding materials [60].
The bleaching process was operated at Louisiana State University. Kenaf from
Mississippi State University was processed two times through a mechanical cleaner and
opener at USDA/SRRC in New Orleans

[61]

. The fiber bundles obtained were washed

and then bleached with H2O2, according to a 2x2x4 factorial experimental design. The
independent variables were temperature with two level (75C and 85C), time with 2 levels
(2 hours and 3 hours), and peroxide concentration with 4 levels (4%, 6%, 8%, and 10%).
These parameters were selected because milder conditions with longer treatment times
are recommended for lignocellulosic fibers. Bleaching experiments were performed in a
randomized order. In the batch of bleached fibers from each experiment, fibers were
randomly selected and evaluated for tensile properties (strain, tenacity, and modulus),
using an Instron tensile tester. The structural features of fiber bundles before and after
bleaching were observed using an environmental scanning electron microscope [62].
Bleaching of kenaf results in white fibers, with a significant decrease in tenacity.
However, other tensile properties as well as the linear density of kenaf are not
significantly affected by the bleaching process. Also, in the bleaching process some of
the encrusting materials, especially lignin, are removed from the kenaf [61] [62].
2.7 Analysis
2.7.1 Fiber and Yarn Properties
Data was collected on the following characteristics: reed length, bundle breaking
tenacity, elongation at break, color, luster, and residual gum content. Comparisons were

24

also made to determine if variety differences affected these fiber characteristics.

Reed length is the total length from base to tip of the decorticated kenaf stalk before
and after processing. These criteria may be important for fiber yield when the intended
use is for products, such as ropes and cordage.
Bundle breaking tenacity is defined as the load required to break a fiber bundle of
fixed length and weight. The flat bundle method is believed to be a good indicator of
yarn strength and has a high correlation to yarn quality index. Bundle breaking tenacity
as a measure of fiber quality would provide quick, accurate results depending on linear
density of the bundle. It establishes the possibility of extracting fibers for large scale
production of fibers.
Elongation at break is the amount of stretch of a fiber bundle before it breaks. It is
an important measure to indicate the ability to stretch.
Color and luster are important properties depending on the fiber end use. Luster has
a positive correlation with strength.
Gum content refers to the total wax, oil, lignin, and other hemicellulosic material.
Residual gum content, the amount of gum left after processing, affects the fineness of
fibers. This ultimately determines the success of using these fibers in a fine, woven
textile structure [64].
When the fibers resulting from chemical retting and bacterial retting were
compared, the chemical retted fiber had less residual gum content, but the bundle
breaking tenacity was lower and the color and luster were also not as good as the
bacterial retted fiber. The elongation at break was almost the same. After carding, the
residual gum content was decreased to a very low level, but the fiber length was much

25

shorter, which made the kenaf fiber much harder to spin. The study of the properties of
kenaf fiber after mercerization is still limited

[65]

. The properties of the yarn and fabric

were tested according the standard ASTM methods.

2.7.2 Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Blend Fabrics
Studies show that finer yarns and fabrics can be made using retted kenaf blended
with cotton. But the kenaf fibers could not exceed more than 30% of the blend. After
blended, the yarn strength was weaker, stiffer, and less recoverable than 100% cotton, but
displayed very high air permeability

[39]

. Fabrics made of 50/50 kenaf/cotton in the

filling direction and 100% cotton in the warp direction have been woven and compared
with 100% cotton. Breaking strength, shrinkage, abrasion, and pilling resistance of the
blended fabric were almost the same as the control fabric. Elongation at break and tear
resistance were lower, but still pass the requirements for apparel applications

[66]

. But

generally speaking, the fabric was not up to apparel quality because it was too harsh to
touch. More research was needed to improve the softness of the fabric. The good tensile
property and resistance to mildew and rot of kenaf may open up markets for industrial
textiles [67].
2.7.3 Image Analysis
In order to understand the properties of textiles, surface properties need to be
characterized. Recently, image-processing techniques have been used to evaluate the
appearance and defects of fiber assemblies, such as slivers, yarns, and fabrics. Imaging
techniques can be successfully used to obtain detailed information about fabric structure
in the laboratory environment as well as in the production environment. Such evaluation
has positive implications for measurement of textile quality during the production

26

process. Electronic images contain more visual information than the human eyes can
discern. After a textile product is imaged, procedures may be used to yield more detailed
structural conformation and to calculate several parameters [68] [69].
Yarn could be analyzed for characteristics, such as blend-irregularity and blending
characteristics. Image analysis was used to study blend irregularity in blended yarns.
The image analysis system enabled researchers to quantitatively evaluate the surface of
blended staple yarns [57]. In the experiment that evaluated mispicks in woven fabric,
image analysis was used successfully to study web characteristics of non-woven textiles
[70]

. Parameters such as web uniformity pore size, pore structures, and fiber diameter had

also been studied [69]. This interesting new technique would be very helpful in textile
processing. Evaluation of blend irregularity could be very important for production of
kenaf blend yarns.
2.8 Summary
Kenafs strength and resistance to rot and mildew make the cotton/kenaf fabric very
unique in diverse end uses. Its good adhesion [71] because of its physical structure and its
strength make it well suited for selected industrial applications. Fashion designers are
always looking for novel interesting textures and textiles.

Cotton/kenaf blends can

provide a new texture for textiles to be used in apparel and home furnishing industry
though spinning kenaf fiber is still a big problem that needs to be solved.

27

Chapter 3 Methodology
3.1 Introduction
Fibers extracted from kenaf were investigated as a new source for textile and
geotextile industries. Structurally, the stalk from which the fibers are extracted consists
of outside rind and inner pith. In the rind of the kenaf, the fibers are bonded in the
middle lamella by lignin and other encrusting materials. In order to obtain the fibers, the
lignin and binding substances must be removed. The extraction conditions significantly
affected the amount of lignin removed and the proprieties of the fiber bundles obtained.
The variables controlled were alkaline concentration of the extraction solution and
extraction time. The physical properties of the fiber were tested. The kenaf fiber were
also blended with cotton at different percentage to make yarn and fabrics, and their
properties was tested and compared.

The yarns were spun with both Ring Spin and

Open-end Rotor Spin methods. This section presents the experimental methods used for
degumming process, carding, spinning, and evaluation of the characteristics of fiber, yarn
and fabric.
3.2 Materials, Reagents, and Equipment
Kenaf ------ bought from Mississippi State University. It was separated by a mechanical
method.
NaOH ------sodium Hydroxide, Certified A.C.S.. Producer, Fisher Scientific.
NaHSO3------ Sodium Bisulfite, Certified A.C.S.. Producer, Fisher Scientific. Assay (as
SO2 ): 66.4%. This product is usually a mixture of Sodium Bisulfite, NaHSO3, and
Sodium Metabisufite, Na2S2O5.
HCI ----- Hydrochloric Acid, Certified A. C. S. plus. Producer: Fisher Scientific. Solution

28

Softener ------Snuggle (ultra) with color protection

Heater ------ Munsey Buffet Range. Model R92. 1650 Watts.
Oven ------ Producer: Blue M Electric Company. Model: POM-336C-1
3.3 Experiment Design
A completely randomized design with 3x4x2 factorial arrangement was used.
Three chemical treatments with different concentration of sodium hydroxide and boiling
time were used to extract the kenaf fibers. The treated kenaf fibers were blended with
cotton at 4 different blending ratios: 100% cotton, 10%, 25%, and 50% kenaf. The
kenaf/cotton blends were spun with the two spinning methods, Ring Spinning and Openend spinning. To produce control samples, Acala cotton fiber was also spun into pure
cotton yarn.
3.4 Chemical Procedure
Only Chemical retting was used in this project. The procedure involves boiling in
NaOH solutionneutralization with acidwater washing---and drying with an oven.
The concentration of sodium hydroxide and boiling time were the key factor affecting the
treatment. Three chemical treatments were used in this study. The concentration of
NaOH and boiling time is in the Table 1.
Table 1 The chemical solution and boiling time of the treatments
Treatment
1
2
3

NaOH %
2
2
5

NaHSO3 %
0.2
0.2
0.5

Time, hr
1
3
1

In all the chemical treatments, the fiber-to-liquid (w/v) ratio was 1:20. The fibers
were washed thoroughly under the warm tap water after boiling, until the water ran clear.

29

Then the fibers were submerged in 0.3% HCI solution for 5 minutes for neutralization,
and washed again.
After retting, the fibers were softened by soaking the fibers in using commercial
softener, Snuggle, for one hour. The concentration of softener was 3.0 g/l, and the
kenaf/water ratio was 1:10. Then the fibers were washed thoroughly with warm tap
water and dried in an oven at 100 oC until dry.
3.5 Mechanical Procedure
The USDA Southern Regional Research Center (SRRC) has a Miniature Spinning
Laboratory (MSP). It is equiped with a set of unique miniature textile machinery that can
process small amount of fiber bundle (50g). Experiment of the kenaf yarn spinning was
performed in the MSP. Acala cotton was first passed through a Kirkman Dixon opener to
open and clean the cotton fibers. The appropriate quantities of cotton and kenaf were
hand blended and cleaned by the opener again, then evenly blended in a Spinlab
opener/blender. To minimize kenaf losses from the blends, a Whitin coarse-wired card
was used. A pair of Medley drawing frames produced breaker and finisher slivers. Two
kinds of spinning methods were used to produce yarns, Ring spin (R) and Open-end
Rotor spin (OE). Ring spun yarns were spun on a Shirley sliver-to-yarn machine. A
Suessen spin tester was used to spin Open-end Rotor yarns.
The yarns were knitted on a small diameter Lawson-Hemphill FAK knitter.
Accommodation was necessary to facilitate knitting of the kenaf-blended yarns.
Sometimes, a tensioning restraint was used to prevent the twist-lively yarns from
snarling. Hairiness of the yarns may provide adequate resistance to constrain the yarn as
it fed off the supply cones. The yarns were knitted with a 3-inch diameter, 160-needle

30

cylinder with a 3.4 meter head, an 8/1 ratio, 14.9 cut at 60 PRM, and 27.3 courses/inch,
for a tightness index of 15.
3.6 Analysis
3.6.1 Fiber Characterization
In order to examine the physical characteristics of the fibers, a scanning electron
microscope (SEM) was used.

The SEM allows examination of specimens without

coating and drying and also enables the observation of structural changes in textile
materials under different conditions, such as wetting and heating. The fiber bundle
pictures may help to compare the difference of the three chemical treatments. This was
tested previously in other tests, so imposed compressive stresses might have induced
some damage.
The fiber samples were evaluated using Spinlab High Volume Instrumentation
(HVI) at the LSU Cotton Fiber Testing Laboratory. It is one of the five designated
laboratories that cooperate in establishing standardization of instrumental cottons
calibration for the cotton industry. HVI (User Model 900 SA) is a set of instruments that
connected with the computer, so the properties of fibers, such as micronaire, fiber length,
uniformity, index, strength, elongation, color grade, leaf grade, and trash content, can be
tested and analyzed. The HVI system meets the strict performance standards established
by USDA. It is also in complete accordance with the ASTM standard test method. For
natural fibers the system measures fiber length, length uniformity, strength, elongation,
micronaire, color, and trash. Test results are automatically calculated relayed to a printer.
The optional temperature and relative humidity monitor checks the stability of the testing
environment. After automatic brushing of the specimen, a mechanical finger

31

moves the Fibrocomb into position for testing.

The fineness test began with weighing a fiber sample on the balance. Then the
weighed sample was inserted into the micronaire chamber. When the chamber door
opened and the sample was ejected, the fineness test was completed. The specimen was
optically scanned to determine length. Jaws clamped the specimen and retracted until the
fibers were broken. The microprocessor calculated length, uniformity, strength and
elongation. Strength was obtained by measuring the force required to break a sample of
known mass. Elongation, the length to which the fibers extend before breaking, is also
calculated.
Figure 3-1 shows the HVI system.
treatment were tested.

The kenaf fibers with or without chemical

Length in HVI testing was the mean length or the upper half

mean length. The strength here was the relationship of the breaking force to the mass of
fiber broken, corrected for micronaire and modified by the calibration constants. The
units matched the standard values entered for calibration cottons, typically grams per tex
(g/tex). The elongation refers to the distance to the maximum of the stress-strain curve,
less the distance attributed to crimp, multiplied by 100, and divided by the break gage
(1/8 inch).
3.6.2 Yarn Characterization
Kenaf blended yarns and pure cotton yarns were analyzed to compare the effect of
spinning methods and kenaf blend ratio to the yarns. In order to observe the structure of
different yarns, the yarns were scanned by SEM. The SEM images of the experimental
yarns were made in both cross-section and longitude direction.
elongation were tested by a Uster Tensorapid [72].

32

Yarn tensile and

(a) Overall view of HVI System

(d) Color, Trash, Fineness Testing

(b) Fibrosampler

(c) Fobrocomb

(e) Length, Length uniformity, Strength and

Elongation Testing

Figure 3-1 Spinlab High Volume Instrument System [72]

33

3.6.3 Fabric Characterization

The Kawabata Evaluation System for Fabrics (KES-FB) was used to test tensile and
shearing bending, compression, and surface friction and roughness, of the cotton and
kenaf blended fabrics. Data was computed and recorded using a computerized data
acquisition system. Pictures of Kawabata instruments are showed in figure 3-2.
In the Tensile and shear tester, the sample was clamped between two chucks and
stretched. The tensile test was obtained by applying a tensile strain to a sample held by
two chucks, by moving the back chuck away from the front chuck. The tensile strain was
detected by a potentiometer that senses the movement of the back chuck. The output
voltage of the potentiometer was proportional to the strain. When conducting the shear
test, the sample was given a constant tensile force and then it is submitted to a shear
deformation to a preset shear angle

[73]

Usually, the sample size should be 20 cm

square. Because of the shortage of kenaf blended fabrics, testing samples were cut to 10
cm square, and were tested with two replicates for each fabric sample. Both warp and
weft directions were tested. So the typical settings of the instruments were not
appropriate and needed to be changed. When testing the tensile property, the distance
between the chucks was changed to 2.5 cm instead of 5 cm. And because of the high
elasticity of the knitted fabric, the sensitivity of X on the recorder was changed to 0.5,
and the standard was 0.1. So the X value needed to be timed 5 to get the true value. The
sensitivity of Y was changed into 0.1 instead of 0.2. The shear parameters needed to be
hand calculated on the shear curve recorded by the X-Y recorder. The calculation is
showed in figure 3-3.
The bending property is one of the components of a hand evaluation system. The

34

bending tester makes the whole sample bent accurately in a constant curvature, and the
curvature was changed continuously. The minute bending momentum if the sample can
be detected and the relationship between the bending momentum and the curvature can
be measured accurately and quickly. The detection of the bending momentum by the
instrument was 0.002gf.cm at full scale [74]. In the bending testing, because of the sample
size was half of the standard size, the data BBending rigidity per unit width (mean of
slopes), 2HB--the width of the mean bending hysteresis calculated by the software should
be divided by 2 to get the real value.

In the surface testing, the samples need to be

connected with a 10 cm2 cotton fabric each in order to be mounted on the instrument.
The cotton parts and the joints were monitored carefully to be sure that they were not
included in the testing area on the Kawabata surface tester. For the compression testing,
a constant rate of compressional deformation up to the upper-limit force and its recovery
process is applied to the sample. The accuracy the compressional testing could be done
with 1m accuracy. The sample was put on the bottom plate after setting the upper-limit
force. When the driving motor switch is turned on, a plunger starts to descend and
compress the sample at a constant rate

[75]

The sample size did not affect the

compression testing data.

3.6.4 Statistical Analysis
Statistic analysis was done using SAS. Multiple Analysis of Variance (MANOVA)
was used to determine if fiber properties differ significantly in terms of retting method,
blend percentage, and yarn spinning method.
factors were determined.

35

Interactions between the above three

(a) Tensile & Shear Tester

(c) Surface Tester

(b) X-Y Recorder

(d) Compression Tester

(e) Bending Tester

Figure 3-2 Instruments of Kawabatas Evaluation System

36

, degree

Figure 3-3 Shear: Hand Calculation [73]

G: Shear stiffness
a+b
2 gf/cm
2 2
2 HG: Hysteresis of shear force at 0.5 of shear angle
c+d
2 gf/cm
2
2HG5: Hysteresis of shear force at 5 of shear angle
e+ f
2 gf/cm
2
37

Chapter 4 Results and Discussion

4.1 Kenaf Fiber Testing
4.1.1 Photomicrograph Comparison
By visual inspection of the kenaf fibers after three different chemical treatments,
Kenaf after Treatment 3 was the softest, but the fibers were the shortest. The kenaf fiber
treated by Treatment 1 was the coarsest one, as shown in Figure 4-1.

Higher

concentration of NaOH also made the fibers color darker. Photomicrographs were taken
at low and high magnification (50 to 2000). From the pictures, we can see some
difference among the treatments.

Kenaf 1 showed the biggest fiber bundles, few

individual fibers were found in the picture. The bundles looked very coarse and warped
with large amount of lignin. We can see a large fiber bundle of about 1mm diameter.
Kenaf 2 reduced the fiber bundle quite obviously, and some single fibers or very small
bundles can be found easily. The bundles became much smoother on the surface; the
biggest bundles showed in the pictures was about 0.2 mm in diameter, which was one
fifth of the ones resulted from treatment 1.
From the 2000 photo, we could see that the lignin began to dissolve, the remained
lignin showed a relatively smooth appearance. In the pictures of Kenaf 3, the bundles
were finer, some were very well separated. Most of the lignin was removed. We could
see the clean and pure kenaf fibers in the picture of high magnification, their average
diameter was about 10 m, this result also corresponded with the data from the literature.
In the pictures of all three kenaf samples, the different sizes of fiber bundles were found.
In many cases, the fibers were separated at one area but bound together at another,
especially in kenaf 3. Kenaf 3 also showed many broken in longitude direction. All the

38

pictures show the fibers tangled with each other. This may increase the amount of fiber
broken during the carding process. Figure 4-1 shows photographs of single kenaf fibers.

(a) kenaf1--50

(b) kenaf2--50

(c) kenaf3--50

(d) kenaf1--2000

(e) kenaf 2--2000

(f) kenaf 3--2000

Figure 4-1. SEM image of kenaf Fiber with Three Treatments

39

4.1.2 Physical Properties of the Fibers

Table 2 shows the fiber properties tested by HVI. Data of raw kenaf are also
included in the table for comparison.
Table 2. Physical Properties of Kenaf Fibers with Different Treatment
Fineness
Micronaire S.D.
Untreated
9.74
0.113
Treat 1
9.68
0.057
Treat 2
9.52
0.120
Treat 3
9.53
0.198

Treatment

Length(inch) Strength (g/tex) Elongation (% )

Avg S.D.
Avg
S. D.
Avg
S.D.
0.711 0.122 26.97
4.5
1.4
1.1
0.735 0.072 17.30
2.9
1.7
0.5
0.739 0.073 15.90
3.1
1.8
1.2
0.716 0.071 10.45
4.6
2.1
1.7

The fineness testing is the first step when characterizing fibers by the HVI
instruments. But according to the HVI Usters instructions, the highest micronaire the
HVI can continue the testing is 8.0, our kenaf fibers are obviously coarser than 8.0. So
the tested results of the HVI values for the kenaf can only be used as a reference to
compare the effectiveness of treatments. They cannot really reflect the exact fiber
fineness. This is also the reason why we got another set of data when the same lots of
fiber tested by same type of HVI at USDA Southern Regional Research Center (SRRC)
again. In the later testing, the average micronaire and standard deviation of the three
treated fibers were 10.59, 10.26, 10.27 and 0.17, 0.36, 0.41 respectively. This was 7%
higher than the previous testing, but both testing showed the same trend. The HVI
instruments at USDA SRRC did not continue the other testing. According to the data, the
fineness of the fibers was increased after treating. And when we increased both boiling
time and concentration of sodium hydroxide, the fibers became finer. There was no
significant difference betweens the fiber treated by higher concentration of NaOH or
longer extraction time.

40

The strength of the fibers decreased significantly after treating. Especially when the
concentration of NaOH was increased. The strength of fibers after treatment with highly
concentrated sodium hydroxide decreased 61% of the original fiber strength. While the
fiber treated in low concentration but longer time, the fiber strength lost 41%. Change of
the fiber elongation showed an opposite trend. The elongation increased as boiling time
or the concentration of NaOH was increased. The elongation values improved 28% and
50% after the treatment 2 and 3 respectively. This is probably because lignin is the main
binding material between the kenaf fibers and it is also the main component to keep the
rigidity of the kenaf fiber bundle and to stand most of the breaking load during the
strength testing. When it partially dissolved in NaOH, the fibers were much easier to
separate from each other and more flexible.
The high standard deviation meant that the bundle size reduced by chemical
treatment were not evenly. We just hand stirred from time to time during the extraction.
Treatment effectiveness was improved by introducing the mechanical agitation. So more
even and better quality fibers could be obtained. The strength of mechanical agitation
was suggested to be at low level in order to keep the weak fibers from breaking. Since
the agitating was not strong during boiling, fiber breaks might also take place after many
times of washing.
The length of the fibers did not show a satisfied trend. The untreated fibers were
stiffer and straighter so the shorter ones were easier to be picked up by the clamp
(fibrosampler). But the treated fibers were softer and somewhat coil, the shorter fibers
were not that easy to be included into the sample. This might explain that although the
fibers broke a lot during the process, tested results still showed a longer average length

41

compared to the untreated fibers.

4.2 Kenaf Yarn Spinning
4.2.1 Blending Ratio
To determine the blending ratio, many factors have to be considered. Such as
strength, absorbent, resistant to abrasion, color, hand and so on. To obtain the minimum
blended fiber length irregularity is one of the most important facts. It is very important to
make quality better yarns. The following formulae [76] are useful in this research.
Blended Fiber Average Length
L = k i li
where ki is weight rate of each mixed fiber and li is average length of each mixed
fiber.
Blended Fiber Length Irregularity (CV)
2
l i 2 l i

C = k i C i + 1
L L
2
L

where Ci is length irregularity of each mixed fiber.

Optimal Blending Ratio
Considering the blending of the two component fibers, we assume that
C
l
= 1
= 2
C2
l1
k1 + k 2 = 1
where footnotes 1 and 2 indicate the two component fibers respectively.
If we want to obtain a minimum blended fiber length irregularity, the following
equivalents must be met:

42

( 1) 2 2( 1)C12 (1 2 2 )C12
k2 =
;
( 1) 3 + 2( 1) 2 ( 1)(1 2 2 )C12
Thus, we can determine the optimal blending ratio k1 and k2 that may lead to a
minimum blended fiber length irregularity [76].
In this research, kenaf was blended with cotton. The mean length of cotton was
l1=1.25 inch, C1=2%. The mean length of kenaf fiber after treatment 2 was l2=0.739
inch, with C2=7.3%. According to the formulae, k2 =63.7%.

But during the carding

process, it was very difficult to get a nice web when kenaf exceeding 60%. So length
irregulation was not the only reason we should consider here.
4.2.2 Carding Loss
To illustrate, the yarns were marked with three parts in this paper. The first part
(1,2, and 3) indicates the treatment methods; the second part (10, 25, and 50) indicates
the kenaf ratio when originally blended with cotton; the third part (O and R) indicates the
yarn spinning methods. O represents the Open end Rotor spinning, and R represents the
Ring spinning. The control cotton yarns are just marked as A-O (Rotor spun Acala
cotton) and A-R (Ring spun). For example, the yarn 2-25-O is the Open end Rotor spun
yarn with 25% kenaf and 75% cotton, and the kenaf after treatment 2.
The kenaf and cotton were carded separately first to untangle, parallel, and clean the
fibers. Then, they were fed to the carding machine by accurate weight ratios to blend
together. It was not too difficult to blend kenaf fibers with cotton fiber during carding.
But there was a significant fiber loss during the carding process. When increasing the
blending ratio of kenaf, the fiber losses also increased. An effective way to determining
the fiber losses of kenaf and cotton separately had not yet been discovered. We could
only get the total loss. This also affected the final kenaf ratio in the blended yarns and
43

fabrics. Fiber losses at the card for the cotton yarn was about 2%, while for the kenafblended yarn, the losses went up to 9.7%. Figure 4-1 shows the fiber loss by treatment
and blend level.
The average losses for the treatment 1, 2, and 3 were 4.96, 4.51, and 4.20
respectively. It shows a decline trend. A main reason to cause fiber loss was the nonuniformity of the fibers. This also indicates that the treatment 3 produced the finest and
softest fiber. The average fiber lose of 10% kenaf blended yarn was 2.01%, less than the
pure cotton (2.20%). It also shows that the fiber losses of blended fibers were less than
the sum of the fiber losses when carding the pure kenaf or cotton fiber separately. An
illustration for this could be the formation of stickiness between the kenaf fiber and
cotton fiber after blending.
4.2.3 Kenaf Yarn Spinnability
Treatment 3 was the most difficult one to spin. The fibers were too short and weak
to process. Visually, the blended yarns were much coarser than the cotton yarns. The
kenaf was not blended very evenly, especially in the low blending ratio. The yarns
containing the Kenaf 3 fibers had less kenaf on the surface of the yarns. The high loss in
spinning was because of the extremely short fiber length. With lower kenaf blending
ratio, yarn spinning was much easier. Open-end Rotor spun yarns containing more kenaf
required high levels of twist. In general, the Open-end yarns appeared more uniform than
the Ring spun yarns. The Ring spun yarns exhibited a hairy appearance due to the
protruding of kenaf fibers. This indicated that kenaf fibers needed to be softened further.
The kenaf fibers in the Open-end yarns were less evident.

44

12.00

9.71 9.79

Card Loss by Weight

10.00

9.35

7.77

8.00

7.71
7.36

6.00

3.83

4.00
3.13

3.08

2.91

2.97
2.49 2.67

2.58
2.21 2.19

2.00

2.02

1.95

1.71
1.33

0.00

Cotton

1K-10

1-K25

1K-50

2K-10

2K-25

2K-50

3K-10

Figure 4-2. Fiber Loss by Treatment and Blend Level

45

3K-25

3K-50

4.2.4 Kenaf Yarn Structure

In order to see the affection of spin method on the yarn structure more clearly,
SEM pictures were taken with the magnification from 50x to around 120x. We chose
only the yarns contain 25% kenaf that treated by the chemical treatment 2 to take
pictures, because these yarns were determined to have the best physical performance
theoretically. The Rotor spun yarns generally had smoother and tighter structure. In the
100% cotton yarns, there were still some protruding fiber ends. In Rotor spun yarns, the
protruding ends hang freely outside the yarns, while in the Ring spun yarns, the ends
tangled together, which made the yarns thicker and more uneven. These tangled fibers
also made the twist of Ring spun yarns more difficult to measure, because they covered
the real trend of the fibers. The diameters of the blended yarns were almost the same as
that of the pure cotton yarns, which were about 230 um. From the pictures of crosssections, it could be seen that the Ring spun yarns had looser structure, some fibers in the
Rotor spun yarns were still clinging together after cutting. The diameter of cut Ring spun
yarn was about 20% larger than that of the cut Rotor spun yarn. The diameter of the cut
blended yarn intersection did not have significant difference with those of the 100%
cotton yarns. This indicated a good blending of the two kinds of fibers. In the pictures of
blending yarns, it was not very easy to identify cotton fibers and the fine kenaf fibers but
the thick kenaf bundles could be seen very clearly. Many of the thick kenaf bundles
clung with cotton only one end and the other ends protruded outside the yarns. Figure 42 shows the SEM pictures of the yarns from the two spinning methods.

46

(a) A-R--50x

(b) A-O--50x

(c) A-R--123x

(d) A-O--123x

(e) A-R-intersection--154x

(f) A-O-intersection--152x

Figure 4-3 SEM pictures of cotton yarns from different spinning methods

47

(a) 2-25-R--51x

(b) 2-25-O--51x

(c) 2-25-R--122x

(d) 2-25-O--123x

(e) 2-25-R-intersection--150x

(f) 2-25-O-intersection--150x

Figure 4-4 SEM pictures of 25% kenaf blended yarns from different spinning methods

48

4.2.5 Kenaf Yarn Strength

From figure 4-5, we can see the comparison of the yarns tenacity and elongation. In
both spinning methods, pure cotton yarns were the strongest and had the highest elongation.
The higher the kenaf blending ratio, the lower the elongation of the yarn was. After blending
with kenaf at 50/50 ratio, the tenacity could drop more than 50%. In average, the yarns
blended with Kenaf 3 had the lowest tenacity. It was reasonable because Kenaf 3 was the
weakest. Kenaf 2 yarns were strongest and longest in terms of tenacity and elongation
among the three experimental yarns.

This can be explained that though Kenaf 1 was

stronger, it was also easier to be broken during the process because they were crispier. Openend Rotor spun yarns had higher twist in order to keep the ends up but the ring spun yarns
tended to be stronger. The average tenacity of the ring spun yarns was about 20% stronger.
The high twist of the rotor yarns also made them more stretching.

This can also be

understood that compared with the pure cotton yarn and ring spun yarn, the elongation of the
high-blend-ratio yarns was not reduced as much as that of the Ring spun yarn.

4.3 Fabric Properties

4.3.1 General Description
The kenaf blended yarns were knitted into experimental fabrics. The knitted fabrics
were cut into 1010 cm squares. The fabrics showed very beautiful natural color. When
increasing the blend ration of kenaf, the color of fabrics became darker. At the same
blending ratio, treatment 1 gave the lightest color, while Treatment 2 looked darkest. But
the color difference between Treatment 2 and Treatment 3 was not obvious. By visual
inspection, the fabrics knitted from the open-end Rotor yarns were smoother than those
knitted from the ring spun yarns. This also caused lots of knitting faults on the fabrics
from Ring spun yarns, mainly the missing loops. From the pictures, we can could
49

12.0

10.0

8.0

6.0

Yarn Tenacity (cN/t

Yarn Elongation

16.0

Elongation
Tenacity

14.0

4.0

2.0

0.0

321321321-

50
50
50
25
25
25
10
10
10
R
50
50
50
25
25
25
10
10
10
O

-R
-R
-R
-R
-R
-R
-R
-R
-R

-O
-O
-O
-O
-O
-O
-O
-O
-O

50

A321321321A-

Figure 4-5. Kenaf/Cotton Blend Yarns Strength Properties

observe that in the rotor-spun fabrics, kenaf and cotton were blended very well, but in the
ring-spun fabrics, we can separate the kenaf parts and the cotton parts. The quality of
yarns also affected the thickness of the fabrics. The average thickness of K-50-O was
2.157 mm, and K-50-R was 1.505 mm. It is because the higher twist of the Rotor yarns
that made the fabric more bulky. Because of the unevenness of the ring spun yarns, some
parts of the fabric were sheerer than the average thickness, while some parts were thicker.
This unevenness also made the fabrics show lighter color in some parts than the others.
A skewed grain could be seen on the Ring fabrics.
The higher the blending ratio of kenaf, the more unevenness the fabrics were.
There were a lot of little darker dots on the surface of the 10% Ring-spun kenaf fabrics.
Cotton parts, kenaf parts, and blended parts were not very difficult to identify visually.
But on the fabrics knitted with the 10% Rotor yarns, the situation was much better. This
was also resulted from the higher twist of Rotor yarns. The higher the kenaf content, the
more different between the fabrics surface appearance was.
In the 50% ring kenaf fabrics, some parts were almost semitransparent. The
thickness of these kinds of parts was as much as 2.5 times less than the thickest parts.
These fabrics also had a lot of missing loops and the yarns were broken from time to
time. But the 50% Rotor kenaf fabrics showed very evenly in both color and thickness.
They were more even than the 25% and 10% Rotor kenaf fabrics. The kenaf and cotton
seemed to blend very well with each other. With the increasing ratio of kenaf, the color
of the fabrics also became darker. The colors of the fabrics from Ring spun yarns were
slightly lighter than the other fabrics. This was very obvious on the 50% kenaf fabrics. It
might indicate that the Ring spun yarns lost more kenaf fibers during knitting. For fabric

51

hand, the higher the kenaf content, the stiffer the fabric. The fabric hand was very harsh
for the 50% kenaf fabrics. But there was no significant difference between the 10%
kenaf fabrics and cotton fabrics. All the blended fabrics, even the 10 percent kenaf
fabrics, were too coarse to contact directly to peoples skin. Figure 4-6 exhibits how the
fabrics look like.
As discussed above, the blending ratios were the ratio of the amount of kenaf and
cotton before spinning, the actual kenaf ratio was lower than the designed value. Because
the kenaf fiber was stiffer and shorter than cotton fiber, the losses of the two kinds of
fiber were not the same during the knitting process. This made the content of kenaf even
lower. An effective way to find the exact kenaf content has not been found out yet.
4.3.2 KAWABATA Testing
Both cotton fabrics and cotton/kenaf blended fabrics were tested by the
KAWABATA system to determine their tensile, shear, bending, compression and surface
properties. Table 3 and Table 4 showed the resulted data. This data was later tested by
the MANOVA method to check if there was a significant influence of chemical treatment
methods, spinning methods and blending ratio on the fabric properties.

At 95%

confidential level, i.e. =0.05, this parameter was considered to have significant affection
to the corresponding property. As showed in Table 5, spinning method affected all of the
parameters except compression energy (WC).

Blending ratio has no influence on

compression rate (EMC) only. Chemical treatment also affected most of the Kawabata
parameters. But in many situations, though spinning method, treatment and blending
ratio significantly affected the parameters separately, but when considering the effect of
two of them or all of them, the effect seemed to disappear. It could be understood that

52

(a) A-R

(b) A-O

(c) 2-10-R

(d) 2-10-O

Figure 4-6 Structures of Fabrics Knitted from Ring Spun Yarns and Open-end Rotor
Spun Yarn

53

(e) 2-25-R

(f) 2-25-O

(g) 2-50-R

(h) 2-50-O

Figure 4-6 (continued)

54

interaction were among these main effects, some main effects worked in an opposite
trend.
In the table 3 and table 4, the meanings of the parameters are below:
Bending properties:
B: Bending Rigidity (gf cm/cm)
HB: Hysteresis of bending moment (gf cm/cm)
Tensile properties:
LT: Linearity of tensile curve
WT: Tensile energy (gf cm/cm2)
RT: Tensile Resilience (%)
EMT: Tensile strain (%)
Surface properties:
SMD: Surface roughness
MIU: The mean frictional coefficient
MMD: Fluctuation of the frictional coefficient
Shear properties:
G: Shearing stiffness (gf /cm degree)
2HG: Hysteresis of shear force at 0.5 of shear angle (gf/cm)
2HG5: Hysteresis of shear force at 5 of shear angle (gf/cm)
Compression properties:
WC: Compressional energy (gf cm/cm2)

To: Fabric thickness (mm)

RC: Compressional resilience (%)

EMC: Compression rate (%)

LC: Linearity of compression thickness curve

55

Table 3 KAWABATA Testing Data for the fabrics from open-end rotor spun yarns

Spun
method

Treatment

Blend
Ratio

2HB

LT

WT

RT

EMT

SMD

MIU

MMD

2HG

2HG5

LC

WC

RC

To

EMC

0.0076

0.0116

0.671

3.730

29.25

21.65

9.3579

0.2779

0.0352

0.850

2.580

2.520

0.258

0.227

12.82

0.352

100.00

0.0073

0.0113

0.664

3.760

29.63

21.45

9.2430

0.2590

0.0358

0.850

2.420

2.430

0.365

0.351

16.09

0.384

100.00

10

0.0185

0.0243

0.769

3.560

35.67

20.28

10.3063

0.2856

0.0576

1.305

4.100

4.020

0.391

0.822

26.51

0.848

94.16

10

0.0189

0.0268

0.753

3.720

34.95

21.33

10.3439

0.2857

0.0517

1.385

3.670

3.420

0.352

0.872

26.43

1.027

89.73

25

0.0193

0.0251

0.753

3.225

36.94

18.90

10.4433

0.3452

0.0660

1.410

4.380

4.120

0.399

0.884

30.87

1.776

85.04

25

0.0198

0.0256

0.773

3.395

35.23

19.25

10.4849

0.3245

0.0636

1.470

4.120

4.420

0.420

0.852

27.21

1.584

78.74

50

0.1660

0.1716

0.888

2.985

40.03

14.15

11.7854

0.3560

0.0928

2.870

7.420

6.800

0.420

1.308

42.78

2.364

79.07

50

0.1491

0.1810

0.927

2.855

39.40

14.03

10.6761

0.3559

0.0972

2.885

7.340

7.000

0.436

1.429

48.71

2.501

74.66

10

0.0147

0.0198

0.753

3.720

31.45

20.45

9.3839

0.2822

0.0554

1.290

3.660

3.950

0.346

0.701

24.55

0.813

84.61

10

0.0147

0.0203

0.710

3.725

29.53

20.50

9.3976

0.2782

0.0475

1.260

3.310

4.200

0.317

0.703

25.77

0.839

84.60

25

0.0166

0.0214

0.734

3.475

38.27

16.78

9.6845

0.3058

0.0600

1.295

3.990

4.200

0.357

0.804

25.02

1.084

83.02

25

0.0179

0.0210

0.733

3.285

35.77

18.03

9.5442

0.3054

0.0586

1.455

4.400

4.050

0.423

0.721

33.27

0.897

76.10

50

0.1319

0.1556

0.913

3.140

37.61

14.08

11.5348

0.3335

0.0879

2.735

6.540

5.800

0.369

1.191

42.08

1.573

67.16

50

0.1423

0.1790

0.914

3.250

37.90

12.50

11.0716

0.3408

0.0910

2.650

6.830

8.250

0.341

1.278

32.17

2.500

72.02

10

0.0163

0.0204

0.691

3.735

30.58

18.40

9.3517

0.2771

0.0508

1.285

3.290

3.220

0.149

0.661

22.58

0.847

93.22

10

0.0158

0.0220

0.763

3.760

29.95

18.25

9.2234

0.2920

0.0519

1.305

3.620

3.810

0.149

0.569

19.67

0.944

93.47

25

0.0165

0.0211

0.727

3.710

36.68

17.78

9.5146

0.3134

0.0605

1.415

3.900

3.730

0.304

0.658

31.25

0.848

77.76

25

0.0142

0.0212

0.741

3.670

33.66

19.70

10.0622

0.3320

0.0632

1.260

3.800

4.300

0.421

0.891

30.96

1.121

75.72

50

0.1481

0.1699

0.898

3.310

36.28

13.75

9.9927

0.3314

0.0907

2.475

6.750

6.580

0.272

1.143

47.29

2.083

59.27

50

0.1327

0.1757

0.918

3.030

36.52

13.20

11.9747

0.3726

0.0829

2.385

6.970

6.360

0.306

1.044

40.85

1.920

60.54

56

Table 4 KAWABATA Testing Data for the fabrics from open-end rotor spun yarns

Spun
method

Treatment

Blend
Ratio

2HB

LT

WT

RT

EMT

SMD

MIU

MMD

2HG

2HG5

LC

WC

RC

To

EMC

0.0098

0.0129

0.832

3.875

52.26

18.63

9.0690

0.2822

0.0547

1.135

3.360

3.610

0.300

0.283

5.44

0.398

94.87

0.0102

0.0160

0.797

3.615

44.40

18.15

8.2230

0.2791

0.0478

1.160

3.410

3.420

0.363

0.426

4.84

0.520

90.22

10

0.0114

0.0177

0.838

3.520

48.01

16.80

9.1942

0.2820

0.0542

1.205

3.540

3.900

0.392

0.639

9.26

0.777

83.92

10

0.0125

0.0203

0.782

3.605

37.60

16.40

9.1909

0.3225

0.0536

1.345

3.500

3.800

0.366

0.591

8.35

0.704

91.90

25

0.0149

0.0199

0.761

3.540

34.30

19.13

9.9930

0.3026

0.0840

1.330

3.930

3.850

0.402

0.927

17.70

1.140

80.95

25

0.0149

0.0194

0.737

3.295

35.39

17.88

9.3342

0.3137

0.0835

1.395

3.790

4.000

0.434

0.786

17.79

0.798

90.74

50

0.0158

0.0294

0.719

3.280

33.93

18.25

10.6716

0.3543

0.0912

1.500

4.060

4.380

0.463

1.220

22.32

1.438

73.36

50

0.0192

0.0272

0.760

3.405

32.93

17.93

10.0516

0.3696

0.0887

1.390

4.480

4.200

0.478

1.121

19.34

1.270

73.92

10

0.0115

0.0169

0.770

3.485

41.18

18.10

9.0981

0.2928

0.0610

1.070

3.070

3.150

0.331

0.421

8.73

0.555

93.26

10

0.0115

0.0190

0.795

3.290

43.01

16.55

9.8491

0.2991

0.0670

1.125

3.340

3.500

0.324

0.426

6.66

0.545

96.62

25

0.0133

0.0202

0.712

3.370

33.38

13.33

10.5661

0.2893

0.0582

1.300

4.070

3.970

0.329

0.948

24.49

1.288

89.29

25

0.0131

0.0209

0.760

3.200

34.69

22.88

9.7794

0.3047

0.0825

1.290

4.660

4.460

0.388

1.046

27.84

1.179

91.50

50

0.0161

0.0247

0.695

3.290

29.64

18.93

10.0582

0.3314

0.0795

1.475

6.540

4.450

0.406

1.374

29.98

1.653

83.41

50

0.0160

0.0238

0.721

2.856

36.68

15.85

10.0405

0.3290

0.0713

1.415

5.100

4.550

0.424

1.313

26.79

1.430

86.54

10

0.0121

0.0144

0.751

3.400

36.29

19.40

9.2672

0.2865

0.0585

1.080

3.430

3.530

0.333

0.720

8.14

0.901

96.10

10

0.0115

0.0152

0.720

3.512

35.81

17.33

8.7374

0.2784

0.0523

1.185

3.870

3.780

0.333

0.704

8.62

0.884

95.56

25

0.0126

0.0198

0.704

3.000

30.44

10.23

10.2764

0.2729

0.0687

1.175

4.120

4.170

0.354

0.886

22.19

1.168

85.81

25

0.0121

0.0206

0.739

3.170

32.54

13.40

9.5039

0.2910

0.0559

1.160

3.910

3.800

0.334

0.854

25.57

0.964

87.82

50

0.0191

0.0271

0.724

3.000

29.33

16.58

9.8531

0.3171

0.0731

1.390

4.460

4.330

0.362

1.103

24.45

1.539

79.30

50

0.0157

0.0232

0.709

2.963

25.86

19.75

10.1546

0.3203

0.0840

1.380

4.780

4.680

0.404

1.152

29.82

1.702

80.97

57

Table 5 MANOVA Testing Data-- Value of p<0.05

Bending

Main Effect
B

Tensile
2HB

LT

WT

RT

EMT

Spun

Y(p< 0.0001) Y(p<0.0001) Y(p=0.0447) Y(p=0.0238) Y(p=0.0233) Y(p=0.0004)

Treatment

Y(p=0.0121) N(p=0.0905) Y(p=0.0135) N(p=0.8913) N(p=0.2131) Y(p=0.0023)

Spun Treatment

N(p=0.0572) N(p=0.3809) N(p=0.5596) Y(p=0.0003) N(p=0.7001) N(p=0.2557)

Ratio

Y(p<0.0001) Y(p<0.0001) Y(p<0.0001) Y(p<0.0001) Y(p=0.0042) N(p=0.3087)

Spun Ratio

Y(p<0.0001) Y(p<0.0001) Y(p<0.0001) Y(p=0.0341) Y(p=0.0003) Y(p<0.0001)

Treatment Ratio
SpunTreatmentRatio

N(p=0.178) N(p=0.7588) N(p=0.507)

N(p=0.9016) N(p=0.3546) N(p=0.6614)

N(p=0.1741) N(p=0.9741) Y(p=0.6764) N(p=0.1431) Y(p=0.0461) N(p=0.8123)

Shearing Angle

Surface

Main Effect

2HG

2HG5

MIU

MMD

Spun

Y(p<0.0001)

Y(p=0.0008)

Y(p=0.0047)

Y(p=0.045)

Y(p=0.0167)

Treatment

Y(p<0.0001)

N(p=0.2527)

N(p=0.5852)

Y(p=0.0023)

Y(p=0.013)

Spun Treatment

N(p=0.3632)

Y(p=0.0036)

N(p=0.4724)

Y(p=0.0294)

N(p=0.449)

Ratio

Y(p<0.0001)

Y(p<0.0001)

Y(p<0.0001)

Y(p<0.0001)

Y(p<0.0001)

Spun Ratio

Y(p<0.0001)

Y(p<0.0001)

Y(p<0.0001)

Y(p=0.0063)

Y(p=0.0013)

Treatment & Ratio

Y(p=0.0312)

N(p=0.1138)

N(p=0.9859)

N(p=0.5836)

N(p=0.1213)

SpunTreatment Ratio Y(p=0.0022)

Y(p=0.0173)

N(p=0.612)

N(p=0.703)

N(p=0.1372)

Surface

Main Effect
LC

WC

RC

To

EMC

Spun

Y(p=0.007)

N(p=0.9915) Y(p<0.0001) Y(p=0.0015) Y(p=0.0004)

Treatment

Y(p<0.0001)

Y(p=0.0175) N(p=0.6147) N(p=0.1359)

Spun Treatment

Y(p=0.0222)

Y(p=0.0021)

Ratio

Y(p<0.0001)

Y(p<0.0001) Y(p<0.0001) Y(p<0.0001) Y(p<0.0001)

Spun Ratio

Y(p=0.0149)

Y(p=0.0013) Y(p=0.0011) Y(p=0.0038) Y(p=0.0149)

Treatment Ratio

N(p=0.2168)

Y(p=0.0063) N(p=0.1234) N(p=0.3887) Y(p=0.0081)

SpunTreatmentRatio

Y(p=0.0459)

Y(p=0.0099) N(p=0.1172)

58

Y(p=0.009)

N(p=0.337)

Y(p=0.0028) Y(p<0.0001)

N(p=0.127)

Y(p=0.0377)

Comparing the average value of each group, some trends of the fabric properties
could be found. Bending and shearing angle were the two properties that reflect the
softness of the fabrics. Roughness and friction reflected the fabric surface smoothness.
The value of the LT were timed 10, in order to put the three properties into one chart.
Otherwise, the column represented them would be too small to compare. As shows in
Figure 4-7 to figure 4-11, when increasing the kenaf in the fabric, both bending rigidity
and shear stiffness increased. The bending rigidity of fabrics with 50% kenaf was about
4 times greater than that of the fabrics with 10% kenaf. Surface properties showed the
same trend, the higher the kenaf contented, the rougher the fabrics were.
Chemical treatment did not have the effect on the fabric as much as the blending
ratio, the biggest difference was within 10%. From Figures 4-12 to 4-16 we could see
that fabrics from Treatment 1 was the stiffest; Treatment 2 and 3 were almost the same in
many parameters. In B and BH, Treatment 3 was even a little bigger than Treatment 2.
This was probably because the chemical treatment didnt change the fiber properties that
much.

But on the other hand, the kenaf content in the fabric could affect fabric

properties.
Spinning method was another important fact that affected the softness and
smoothness of the fabrics. Figures 4-17 to 4-21 compared the properties of the fabrics
knitted from open-end rotor spun yarns and ring spun yarns. Because of the higher twist
level of Open-end rotor spun yarns, the fabrics knitted from them also had higher rigidity.
The B and HB of the fabrics from Rotor spun yarns were almost 4 times bigger than that
of the fabrics from Ring spun yarn. The shearing parameters showed the same trend but
the differences between the two kinds of fabrics were much less. And these higher twist

59

level also made the fabric from Rotor spun yarns have smoother surface, because the
higher twist kept the fiber ends better.
With the increasing blending ratio the fabrics became weaker, had lower resilience,
and needed higher compression energy but the compression resilience got higher. The
compression properties may also be affected because of the different thickness of the
fabrics with different kenaf. But in general, high kenaf content made the fabrics stiffer.
Blending with large amount of cotton also weakened the effect of chemical
treatment to the kenaf fibers. The strength of the fabrics from different treatments did not
have too much difference. But Treatment 3 made the fabrics more stretch, higher
compression resilience, and the lowest compression energy. Spinning methods data did
not show a quite ideal pattern. We expected that fabrics from Open-end Rotor spun yarns
were stronger, higher compression energy, and lower compression resilience. But there
were not much difference in strength and compression energy according to the data.

60

10% Kenaf
25% Kenaf

0.12

50% Kenaf
0.1

gf cm/cm

0.08

0.06

0.04

0.02

0
B

HB

Figure 4-7 BendingProperties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics with Different Blending Ratio

10% Kenaf
25% Kenaf
50% Kenaf

0
G

2HG

2HG5

Figure 4-8 Shear Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics with Different Blending Ratio

61

10% Kenaf
25% Kenaf

12

50% Kenaf
10

0
SMD

MIU

MMD

Figure 4-9 Surface Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics with Different Blending Ratio

10% Kenaf
40

25% Kenaf
50% Kenaf

35

30

25

20

15

10

0
LT(x10)

WT

RT

EMT

Figure 4-10 Tensile Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics with Different Blending Ratio
62

10% Kenaf
4

25% Kenaf
50% Kenaf

3.5

2.5

1.5

0.5

0
LC

WC

RC

Figure 4-11 Compression Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics with Different Blending

Ratio

Treatment 1
0.06

Treatment 2
Treatment 3

0.05

gf cm/cm

0.04

0.03

0.02

0.01

0
B

HB

Figure 4-12 Bending Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Kenaf with Different
Chemical Treatment
63

Treatment 1
Treatment 2
Treatment 3

4.5

3.5

2.5

1.5

0.5

0
G

2HG

2HG5

Figure 4-13 ShearProperties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Kenaf with Different

Chemical Treatment

Treatment 1

12

Treatment 2
Treatment 3

10

0
SMD

MIU

MMD

Figure 4-14 Surface Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Kenaf with Different
Chemical Treatment

64

Treatment 1

40

Treatment 2
35

Treatment 3

30

25

20

15

10

0
WT

RT

EMT

Figure 4-15 Tensile Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Kenaf with Different
Chemical Treatment

Treatment 1
Treatment 2
Treatment 3

2.5

1.5

0.5

0
LC

WC

RC

Figure 4-16 Compression Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Kenaf with Different
Chemical Treatment

65

Open-end Rotor Spin

0.06

Ring Spin
0.05

gf cm/cm

0.04

0.03

0.02

0.01

0
B

HB

Figure 4-17 Bending Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Yarns with Different Spun
Method

Open-end Rotor Spin

Ring Spin

4.5

3.5

2.5

1.5

0.5

0
G

2HG

2HG5

Figure 4-18 Shear Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Yarns with Different Spun
Method

66

Open-end Rotor Spin

12

Ring Spin
10

0
SMD

MIU

MMD

Figure 4-19 Surface Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Yarns with Different Spun
Method

Open-end Rotor Spin

Ring Spin

45

40

35

30

25

20

15

10

0
LT(x10)

WT

RT

EMT

Figure 4-20 Tensile Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Yarns with Different Spun
Method

67

Open-end Rotor Spin

Ring Spin

2.5

1.5

0.5

0
LC

WC

RC

Figure 4-21 Compression Properties of Kenaf/Cotton Fabrics from Yarns with Different
Spun Method

68

Chapter 5 Conclusions and Suggestions for Further Work

5.1 Conclusions
In response to the industrys need for developing the technology for processing
kenaf fiber, this research work focused on a study of improving kenaf spinnability. The
kenaf bundles were treated with the chemical reagentsNaOH and NaHSO3 with
different concentrations and different reaction time, and then softened by commercial
softener. These Treated fibers were then blended with cotton to spin into yarns by Rotor
spin and Ring spin. The experimental yarns were knitted into fabrics. The properties of
fibers, yarns and fabrics were tested using a series of instruments.
1. After the chemical treatment, fiber fineness, softness and elongation at break
were improved, but the fiber bundle strength and length were decreased. Increasing the
concentration of sodium hydroxide weakened the fiber strength significantly.
2.Yarns with lower kenaf blending ratio were spun more easily. Rotor spun yarns
with high kenaf content required high levels of twist, which made them have more
elongation for break. But ring spun yarns were stronger. In general, the open-end rotor
spun yarns appeared more uniform than the ring spun yarns and exhibited less hairy
appearance.
3. Fabrics became stiffer when kenaf blending ratio was increased. The fabrics
knitted from ring spun yarns were softener but weaker than those from open-end Rotor
spun yarns and had more hairy appearance.
5.2 Suggestions for Further Work

1. The kenaf we treated was bought from Mississippi, it was already dried and
coarsely separated. Ret from fresh kenaf may help to reduce the lignin content.
69

2. For the chemical treatment, we have known that high concentration of NaOH
may weaken the fibers, but we do not know how it damage the fibers. If possible, the
fiber structures should be observed to see how the reagents changed the fiber structure, so
a better chemical retting method could be found.
3. High pressure may help the fibers to separate from each other. It would be a
good idea to combine the high pressure and chemical retting together to reduce the usage
of chemical reagent and extraction time.
4. Because both kenaf and cotton are celullosic fiber, it is impossible to identify
them by chemical methods. It is very helpful and necessary to find out a method to
calculate the exact kenaf content in the yarns and fabrics.

70

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Vita

Ting Zhang was born in Dalian, China, on September 29, 1977. In the year 1996,
she attended the School of Material Science and Technology, Beijing University of
Chemical Technology, and pursued a number of interests both within and without the
university curriculum. These interests eventually led her to make a decision to study
aboard in the United States. In the year of 2000, she began her masters program in
textile science in the School of Human Ecology at Louisiana State University.

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