Fibrillation refers to the splitting of tiny microfibrils (1-4um in diameter) on the fiber surface. Different degrees of fibrillation have various impact on the properties of fiber materials. Here, Alfa Chemistry provides analytical services for the determination of fiber fibrillation. Our fiber analysis laboratory has a strong technical infrastructure and a team of well-trained and experienced experts.
Optional Service Items
Combining extensive analytical experience and advanced technology, our team provides comprehensive and accurate fibrillation degree determination and analysis services, as well as detailed analysis results and reports. It is worth mentioning that the fibrillation index (F.I.) is an important parameter for characterizing the degree of fibrillation (The calculation formula for fibrillation index shown as figure). In general, the higher the F.I., the greater the degree of fibrillation. Our services include but are not limited to the following:
- Determining the degree of fibrillation
- Assessing the fibrillation index
- Morphology characterization of fibrillated fibers
- Analyze the effect of different factors on the degree of fibrillation, such as temperature, humidity, pH, cross-linking, treatment time, etc.
Analytical Method
General methods for determining the degree of fiber fibrillation include qualitative analytical methods and quantitative or semi-quantitative analytical methods. Currently developed fibrillation analysis methods include but are not limited to the following:
- Evaluation of color variation due to washing
- Microscope observation
- Subjective evaluation method of fibrillation index
- Ultrasonic vibrating treatment
- Calculate the number of fibrils per unit fiber length
- Wet abrasion test
- Fabric washing
- High shear mixing method
- Ball-bearing method
Advanced Technology
As a leading supplier and service provider in the fiber material industry, Alfa Chemistry has been focusing on the innovative progress of fiber analysis technology to actively develop our analytical capabilities. Kojiro Uetani et al. reported a method for directly determining the degree of wood pulp fibrillation by pixel-resolved optical retardation distribution analysis. In this work, the researchers found that both the mean delay and the standard deviation are direct indicators of the degree of fibrillation. [1]
Pixel-resolved retardation as a direct indicator of the degree of fibrillation.
About The Fibrillation Degree
For various application purposes, the expected degree of fibrillation of the fibrous material is also different. For example, fibrillation must be minimized to maintain product quality for fibers used in textile applications. While considering fibers for non-textile applications, fibrillation is also a method that can increase fiber bonding by increasing the bonding surface area. In addition, researches have shown that fibrillation can enhance the enzymatic hydrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass. [2]
The experimental flow.
Cooperate With Us
- Experienced testing and research team
- Meet customer needs at all stages
- Efficient and cost-effective services
- Complete and advanced infrastructure
References
- Kojiro Uetani, et al. Carbohydrate Polymers, 2021, 254, 117460.
- Wei Liu, et al. Bioresource Technology, 2016, 206, 99-103.
Our products and services are for research use only.
