RELATION BETWEEN FIBER SHRINKAGE AND HORN IFICATION

The pattern of fibre shrinkage was observed by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). Three phenomena were observed: deformation of the fibre cross-section, wrinkling oi the fibre surface, and late and rapi dly progressing shrinkage. Hornification was measured by centrifugatio n (WRV). The initial water removal by drying did not have an affect on hornification. Further water removal caused a linear increase in horn ification. Above 70% solids content, no further change in hornificatio n was found for unbeaten fibres. Oven-drying caused additional hornifi cation, while beating amplified hornification. The authors suggest two phases to describe fibre shrinkage: shrinkage I is thought to be caus ed by large pore dewatering, which leads primarily to fibre shape alte ration. Shrinkage I is related to hornification. Shrinkage II occurs a t the end of drying and progresses isotropically in the fibre cross-se ction. Shrinkage II was not found to be related to hornification.