Jute test results show promise
11/08/2009
The Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) has reported developments in what it has described as new “earth-friendly, fibre-blended yarns” from polyester and stems of saluyot. Saluyot (Corchorus olitorius) is the source of jute fibres.
PTRI director, Dr Carlos Tomboc, has explained that the developments are the institute’s focus on studying nontraditional tropical fibre sources such as maguey, water hyacinth, saluyot, abaca, anabo, banana, kenaf, pineapple and ramie. The institute is pushing for the use of fibre-rich plants in textile production to support the local industry in reducing imports of synthetic fibres.
The institute has claimed that its research trials show that saluyot stems when soaked in water for 21 to 24 days can yield at least 5% fibres. Spinning the treated fibres with polyester produced 80/20, 70/30, and 60/40 polyester/saluyot, with yarn counts of 25–29 Ne, which when woven, can produce fine, smooth, and blemish-free fabrics ideal for manufacturing garments.
The United Nations General Assembly has chosen jute as one of 15 major natural fibres around the world.
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