Conversion of sugarcane biomass into sustainable fabrics: softening of fibers using alkali and silicone softener treatment

This study addresses environmental concerns related to sugarcane biomass as an industrial fuel source by exploring its potential for textile applications. Bagasse undergoes sequential alkali-H _2 O _2 treatment, followed by varying concentrations of silicone softener (50 g l ^−1 − 100 g l ^−1 − 150g l ^−1 ). The goal is to enhance fiber fineness and softness. Comprehensive physical and chemical characterization reveals significant alterations in treated fibers, impacting surface morphology, crystallinity, linear density, and moisture regain. Results indicate a decline in fiber linear density from 59.47tex to 48.84tex, thus improved fineness, moisture regain initial from 6.9% to 4.7%, reduced crystallinity, and enhanced mechanical strength with silicone softener treatment. Treated fibers show promise as a sustainable alternative to conventional cotton, emphasizing the importance of sugarcane biomass for eco-friendly textile manufacturing.