Research on aliphatic resin-reinforced bamboo spun fiber bundles based on optimal twisting process

Abstract

Bamboo, recognized as a sustainable material with remarkable properties, has found extensive application in the textile industry. This paper presents the findings of an investigation into the mechanical properties of twisted bamboo spun fiber bundles. The bundles were produced through the delignification and thinning of moso bamboo, followed by twisting in both the Z-direction and the S-direction, with varying twisting angles as experimental variables. The results indicated that the mechanical properties of the bamboo spun fiber bundle, produced under a single-strand Z-twist direction with a 20° twist angle, were optimal. These properties included the highest tensile strength of 154.25 MPa, a low modulus of elasticity, and a high elongation at break of 6.9 %, which represented superior preparation parameters. To enhance the bamboo spun fiber bundles during the preparation process—particularly because they tend to absorb moisture easily and disintegrate due to the removal of some lignin—a mixture of aliphatic epoxy resin and amine curing agents is employed. Following resin impregnation, both the expansion rate and orientation of the bamboo spun fiber bundles demonstrated a reduction compared to the unimpregnated one. The epoxy resin conferred dimensional stability and flexibility to the fiber bundles. Additionally, compared with those without impregnation, resin-impregnated bamboo spun fiber bundles resulted in a strength increase of 6.81 %, an enhancement in elongation at break of 9.79 %, a reduction in modulus of 2.67 %, a small plastic deformation of 13.96 % under cyclic loading, and a decrease in performance of only 3.5 % after high-temperature light ageing. This material demonstrated improved strength, toughness, and durability, aligning more closely with the requirements for textile fiber raw materials. The findings of this study refine processing parameters and broaden the application of bamboo spun fiber bundles in home furnishings and decorative contexts.