Next-Generation Cellulosic Filaments from Hemp Pulp via Dry-Jet Wet Spinning Using HighPerCell® Technology

Abstract

Fiber demand of cellulosic fibers is rapidly increasing; however, these fibers are mainly based on the use of wood pulp (WP), which often have long transport times and, consequently, a high CO2 footprint. So, alternative pulps based on non-wood, annual fast-growing plants are an option to cover the demand for raw materials and resources. Herein, we report on the use of a novel developed hemp pulp (HP) for man-made cellulosic fiber filament spinning. Commercial WP was used as a reference material. While HP could be used and directly spun as received without any further pretreatment, an additional step to adjust the degree of polymerization (DP) was needed to use the wood pulp. Continuous filaments were spun using a novel dry-jet wet spinning (HighPerCell® process) technique, which is based on the use of 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium octanoate ([C2C1im][Oc]) as a solvent. Via this approach, several thousand meters (12,000 m–15,000 m) of continuous multifilament filaments were spun. The HP pulps showed excellent spinning performance. The novel approach allows the preparation of cellulosic fibers for either technical—with high tensile strength—or textile—possessing a low fibrillation tendency—applications. Textile hemp-based filaments were used for first weaving trials, resulting in a flawless fabric.