Investigation of the Use of Kapok Fibres as Non-Absorbent Non-Woven Material
Investigation of the Use of Kapok Fibres as Non-Absorbent Non-Woven Material |
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| © 2025 by IJETT Journal | ||
| Volume-73 Issue-8 |
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| Year of Publication : 2025 | ||
| Author : N Z Nkomo, A A Alugongo | ||
| DOI : 10.14445/22315381/IJETT-V73I8P130 | ||
How to Cite?
N Z Nkomo, A A Alugongo,"Investigation of the Use of Kapok Fibres as Non-Absorbent Non-Woven Material", International Journal of Engineering Trends and Technology, vol. 73, no. 8, pp.355-360, 2025. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/22315381/IJETT-V73I8P130
Abstract
Kapok fibre originates from the kapok tree and is found in many regions around the world. The fibre has a circular cross-section with an air-filled lumen. The hollow structure of the kapok fibre gives the material a very low density. The trapped air within the kapok fibre lumen serves as a thermal and acoustic insulator. However, the air trapped within the fibre makes it susceptible to flame propagation. Furthermore, the wax on the fibre surface makes the fibre more flammable. The study sought to study the potential use of kapok fibres as a non-absorbent non-woven material. The methodology involved the extraction of the kapok fibre and fabricating a chemically bound non-woven material. The chemical binding agent varied between 0 – 50%, and then the fabricated non-woven was tested to ascertain its tensile strength, absorption properties, antimicrobial properties, and fire retardancy properties. Sample A, containing 30% binder, recorded the highest tensile strength of 12.593 N and an elongation at peak averaging 4.326 mm. Sample B, with 40% binder, had the highest absorbency value. All the samples failed the flame-retardancy test, indicating a strong need for a flame-retardant finish. The non-woven material produced is suitable for various end uses such as mattress protectors. There is a need for further research into hybridizing the kapok with other fibres to increase the strength of the non-woven as well as the flame retardancy.
Keywords
Flame retardancy, Kapok fibre, Mechanical properties, Non-woven.
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