Study on the properties of water-retted Cymbopogon citratus pseudostem fibres and their nonwoven fabric characteristics

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to analyse cellulose fibres extracted from the pseudo-stems of Cymbopogon citratus and evaluate their properties in non-woven fabric production. Design/methodology/approach The water retting method was used for fibre extraction, and intrinsic fibre qualities were examined to assess their suitability for textile applications. A thermal bonding technique, using a hot press machine and polylactic acid powder as a binder, was applied for non-woven fabric development. Findings The retted fibres had an average length of 156 mm and a fineness value of 5.73 tex. The fibre’s tenacity and elongation values were 1.33 gf/denier and 12.78%, respectively. Fourier transform infrared analysis confirmed the presence of major cellulose components. The fibre’s crystallinity and friction coefficient were 50% and 0.3, respectively. C. citratus fibre exhibited hygroscopic characteristics with a moisture regain of 10.65%. Experimental non-woven fabrics (70% C. citratus fibre, 30% polylactic acid powder) demonstrated consistent weight and thickness, with variations in tensile strength. Moisture regain values for non-woven fabrics were approximately 7.6%. Originality/value The features of C. citratus fibre, obtained with the water retting process, exhibited suitability for textile applications. Three experimental non-woven fabrics comprising of C. citratus fibre and polylactic acid powder were produced with three different pressing temperatures. The tensile strength properties of these fabrics were influenced by pressing temperature.