^

Agriculture

Technology for treating abaca fiber developed

-
A technology that combines mechanical and chemical treatments of abaca fibers to make the strands suitable for cotton spinning has been developed.

The technology was generated by researchers of the Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI), a DOST agency headed by Director Carlos Tomboc. It placed second in the Likha Award (Creative Research category) in the 2002 National Invention Contest.

Through a combination of mechanical and chemical treatments, the abaca fibers, capitalizing on their superior strength and flexibility, were converted into cottonized fibers that can undergo conventional spinning.

PTRI expressed optimism that the invention will facilitate commercial textile production through the cotton spinning system, the process by which 90 percent of local textile mills operate.

Initial runs indicated that blends of abaca as high as 50 percent could be produced.

The technology finds application in the production of textile fabrics for GTH (gifts, toys, houseware), apparel and industrial use.

"With the growing concern for the environment, the use of natural fibers for the manufacture of textile is much sought for, hence, the potential for our abaca, piña, and natural fibers in the production of globally competitive fabrics," PTRI stressed. – Rudy A. Fernandez

vuukle comment

ABACA

CREATIVE RESEARCH

DIRECTOR CARLOS TOMBOC

FERNANDEZ

FIBERS

LIKHA AWARD

NATIONAL INVENTION CONTEST

PHILIPPINE TEXTILE RESEARCH INSTITUTE

PRODUCTION

RUDY A

TEXTILE

  • Latest
Latest
Latest
abtest
Are you sure you want to log out?
X
Login

Philstar.com is one of the most vibrant, opinionated, discerning communities of readers on cyberspace. With your meaningful insights, help shape the stories that can shape the country. Sign up now!

Get Updated:

Signup for the News Round now

FORGOT PASSWORD?
SIGN IN
or sign in with