Separation of Bamboo Fibers from Chopsticks for Yarn Production using Ring Spinning System

Abstract

This study investigates the extraction of bamboo fibers from recycled chopsticks for ring spinning applications. The research focuses on the fiber extraction process, bleaching conditions, and the optimization of fiber fineness reduction using cellulase enzymes. The experimental results indicated that used bamboo chopsticks, after being cleaned and cut into 5 cm segments, could be effectively disintegrated into fine, uniform fibers through a multi-stage process: boiling in 100 g/L sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at 105°C for 60 minutes, followed by mechanical grinding.

For the whitening process, bleaching with 9 g/L hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) at 90°C for 60 minutes yielded superior results compared to sodium chlorite, providing high whiteness while maintaining fiber structural integrity. Subsequent enzymatic treatment with 5 g/L cellulase at 60°C for 90 minutes significantly enhanced fiber fineness and softness compared to untreated fibers.

Regarding the spinning performance, bamboo fibers were blended with polyester (PES) at various ratios using a ring spinning system. Successful yarn formation was achieved at PES/Bamboo blend ratios of 65:35 and 50:50. However, yarn evenness remained suboptimal due to fiber breakage during the carding process, which resulted in a length discrepancy between the bamboo and polyester fibers. Furthermore, 100% bamboo yarn could not be produced; the short staple length and high fiber weight prevented effective web formation, causing the fibers to drop at the rear of the carding machine.