In textile finishing, bio-polishing and singeing are two common processes for removing fuzz and improving quality. However, bamboo fiber, Tencel, and Lyocell, three types of regenerated cellulose fibers, are not suitable for bio-polishing; singeing is the more appropriate choice. This conclusion stems from the fiber characteristics and the core differences between the two processes.
I. Why can’t these three fibers undergo bio-polishing?
Bio-polishing relies on cellulase to selectively decompose the cellulose in the surface fuzz of the fabric. However, its potential damage to the fiber structure is completely contrary to the characteristics of these three types of fibers and cannot achieve the desired effect.
Tencel is essentially Lenzing’s Lyocell brand. Both bio-polishing and general-purpose Lyocell have the characteristics of regular structure and moderate strength (wet strength superior to traditional regenerated cellulose fibers). However, during bio-polishing, cellulase easily penetrates into the fiber interior, rather than just acting on the surface fuzz. This damages the main fiber structure, leading to decreased fabric strength, loss of drape, and even wrinkling and deformation, contradicting its high-end fabric quality positioning.
Bamboo fiber has low crystallinity and a loose structure. The enzymatic hydrolysis of the fiber-absorbing process quickly erodes the fiber’s interior, causing the fabric to become brittle, aging faster, and destroying its natural antibacterial components, completely negating its core advantages. Even with strict control of enzyme concentration and processing time, it’s impossible to balance the depilatory effect with fiber damage, rendering it practically useless. In summary, the structural characteristics of these three types of fibers determine that they are unsuitable for fiber-absorbing processes; forcibly processing them will severely affect product quality.
II. Suitable Solution: Advantages and Practical Points of Singing Treatment
Singing treatment involves rapidly passing a high-temperature flame or a hot metal plate across the fabric surface, instantly carbonizing the surface fibers. The carbonized material is then removed by brushing, resulting in a smooth fabric surface and improved anti-pilling properties. This process does not involve action on the fiber interior and is perfectly suited to the characteristics of the three types of fibers.
Compared to direct fiber absorption, singeing offers significant advantages for the three types of fibers: First, it only affects the surface fibers, preserving the main fiber structure and maintaining the drape and smoothness of Tencel and Lyocell, as well as the moisture-wicking and antibacterial properties of bamboo fiber. Second, it boasts high processing efficiency, is suitable for industrial production, and delivers stable results, balancing fabric appearance and core performance. Third, it is adaptable to different types of the three fibers; whether it’s high-end Tencel apparel or lightweight bamboo fiber fabrics, ideal results can be achieved by adjusting process parameters.
Key details to consider in practice: Adjust the flame temperature and fabric speed according to the fiber’s heat resistance. For Lyocell and Tencel, medium-high temperature rapid singeing is recommended. Bamboo fiber, with slightly lower heat resistance, requires a lower temperature and faster fabric speed to avoid fabric damage from singeing. After singeing, timely cooling and brushing are essential to remove residual carbon deposits and prevent affecting the fabric’s color and feel.
III. Summary
Due to the limitations of their fiber structure and properties, bamboo fiber, Tencel (Lyocell), and general-purpose Lyocell cannot undergo singeing treatment. Forced processing will result in fiber damage and quality degradation. Singing singeing, with its advantages of “surface action and high efficiency and stability,” can remove fuzz and improve fabric texture while preserving the core characteristics of various fibers. It is the optimal fuzz removal solution for these three types of regenerated cellulose fibers, suitable for the production needs of fabrics of different grades and uses.
Original article, author:Devin
