Ahlstrom Corp, Finland

Cellulosic fibres occupy an important position among raw materials for the textile industry. They are used in apparel, household fabrics and various non-woven fabrics. Textile fabrics, such as non-woven, knitted fabrics, may be made of cellulose alone or in combination with other synthetic fibres. Cellulosic fibre-based textile products include feminine hygiene products, absorbent products, household wipes, babies’ wipes and diapers, pillowcases, surgical dressings and shoe linings. This chapter first reviews the nature and characteristics of cellulosic fibres. It next discusses cellulose solvents and preparation of solutions, then describes the methods of modification of cellulose pulp in order to increase its reactivity. A review of technologies of cellulosic fibre production, including cellulose-based composite fibres, is presented. Novel, prospective methods of cellulosic fibre manufacture are discussed.