Study on Division of Natural Bamboo Fibers by Steam Explosion

Abstract

In order to improve the effect of natural bamboo fibers degumming, the factors affecting the natural bamboo fibers separation effect in general alkali boiling conditions after the process of steam explosion were researched. The results showed that the degumming rate increased with the rise of steam explosion pressure and the pressure maintaining time. As the steam explosion was stronger, the degree of the fibers separation and softness were better. After steam explosion and alkali boiling united degumming method, the hemicelluloses and lignin content of the fibers decreased by 41.61% and 31.94%, while the cellulose content rose to 63.59%. The effect of steam explosion and alkali boiling united degumming method was better than single alkali boiling or steam explosion. The morphology of fibers became smooth and the fiber’s diameter reduced obviously.