03.05.24
Kelheim Fibres, a manufacturer of viscose specialty fibers, is showcasing recent research findings at this year’s Cellulose Fibres Conference. The development, led by Dr. Ingo Bernt, project leader of Fibre & Application Development at Kelheim Fibres, and Dr. Thomas Harter from Graz University of Technology, provides insights into the correlation between the geometry of viscose fibers and the liquid absorption of tampons.
Kelheim Fibres has long been engaged in the functionalization of viscose fibers, including the specific adaptation of fiber cross-sections.
The trilobal Galaxy, highly esteemed in the industry as the tampon fiber from Kelheim Fibres for many decades, serves as a prime example. The current study now underscores the unique properties of the fiber, primarily rooted in its geometry. This involves taking a closer look at the underlying mechanisms.
It has been confirmed that, in contrast to the traditionally round viscose fibers and despite similar chemical compositions and mechanical properties, Galaxy enables significantly better liquid absorption: While the higher specific surface area of trilobal fibers already promotes improved liquid absorption, this is not the main factor accounting for the difference in absorption. Instead, the geometric shape of the fibers proves to be crucial. Trilobal fibers create and maintain a more voluminous, extensive network within the absorbent body, providing a larger volume for liquid absorption.
Dr. Bernt emphasizes, “The results of our study are not limited to tampons—any application requiring increased absorbency can benefit from the properties of our Galaxy fibers.”
Kelheim Fibres has long been engaged in the functionalization of viscose fibers, including the specific adaptation of fiber cross-sections.
The trilobal Galaxy, highly esteemed in the industry as the tampon fiber from Kelheim Fibres for many decades, serves as a prime example. The current study now underscores the unique properties of the fiber, primarily rooted in its geometry. This involves taking a closer look at the underlying mechanisms.
It has been confirmed that, in contrast to the traditionally round viscose fibers and despite similar chemical compositions and mechanical properties, Galaxy enables significantly better liquid absorption: While the higher specific surface area of trilobal fibers already promotes improved liquid absorption, this is not the main factor accounting for the difference in absorption. Instead, the geometric shape of the fibers proves to be crucial. Trilobal fibers create and maintain a more voluminous, extensive network within the absorbent body, providing a larger volume for liquid absorption.
Dr. Bernt emphasizes, “The results of our study are not limited to tampons—any application requiring increased absorbency can benefit from the properties of our Galaxy fibers.”
