New Cocel lyocell fiber process

Abstract

Conventional processes of producing lyocell fiber are today well-known, and certain of these processes have been commercialized successfully. About 20 years ago, however, a different process was attempted-direct dissolution of pulp powder with NMMO solvent. The main problems with this method were that the resultant solution contained microgel which interrupted spinning ability, and management of solid NMMO solvent was difficult when compared to the liquid material. This article describes how scientists of the Korea Institute of Science and Technology have improved the direct dissolution and thus have invented the Cocel process.