Yian Zheng and Aiqin Wang

Contents

6.1 Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 102

6.2 Structure of Kapok Fiber…………………………………………………………………………………….. 102

6.3 Properties of Kapok Fiber……………………………………………………………………………………. 105

6.3.1 Spinning Property………………………………………………………………………………….. 105

6.3.2 Dyeing Property…………………………………………………………………………………….. 105

6.3.3 Mechanical Properties……………………………………………………………………………… 106

6.3.4 Hydrophobic-Oleophilic Property………………………………………………………………… 106

6.3.5 Adsorption Property……………………………………………………………………………….. 107

6.3.6 Microbiological Properties………………………………………………………………………… 108

6.4 Conclusions and Future Perspective………………………………………………………………………… 108

References………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 109

Abstract Due to the development of sustainable technology, green renewable resources have attracted increasing interests in recent years. Kapok fiber belongs to a typical cellulosic fiber, which is obtained from the seed hairs of kapok trees (Ceiba pentandra). Kapok fiber possesses the features of thin cell wall, large lumen, low density, and hydrophobic-oleophilic properties. This chapter focuses on the struc­ture and properties of kapok fiber.

Keywords Kapok fiber • Structure • Properties

Y. Zheng • A. Wang (*)

Lanzhou Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Science, 18# Tianshui Middle Road, Lanzhou, China e-mail: aqwang@licp. cas. cn

K. R. Hakeem et al. (eds.), Biomass and Bioenergy: Processing and Properties,

DOI 10.1007/978-3-319-07641-6_6, © Springer International Publishing Switzerland 2014

6.1 Introduction

Kapok fibers are obtained from the fruits of kapok trees (Ceibapentandra) which belong to the family of Bombacaceae and are growing in Asia, Africa, and South America. Their color is yellowish or light brown with a silk like luster. Kapok fiber is odorless, fluffy, nontoxic, nonallergic, and resistant to rot. Traditionally, kapok fiber is used as the stuffing for pillows, bedding, and some soft toys. Owing to excel­lent buoyancy and air-filled lumen, kapok fiber is also utilized as the buoyant mate­rial (such as life preservers) and insulation materials against sound and heat. As a kind of natural biodegradable fibers, kapok fiber is now receiving more attention in scientific researches.