Super-Robust Cellulose Rayon Filaments Engineered via Molecular Orientation-Cross-linking Assembly

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Polymer Science
• Sustainable Chemistry

Background:

• Developing sustainable alternatives to synthetic fibers like polyamide and polyester is crucial.
• Conventional regenerated cellulose fibers face environmental (viscose rayon) and fibrillation (Lyocell) challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel molecular orientation-cross-linking assembly technology for high-performance regenerated cellulose fibers.
• To overcome limitations of existing cellulose fiber production methods.

Main Methods:

• Utilized dry-jet wet spinning with a deep eutectic solvent system (ZnCl2/formic acid/water) for cellulose dissolution.
• Integrated gravity-assisted traction orientation, Ca2+ complexation, and ethanol-water coagulation for fiber assembly.

Main Results:

• Achieved highly aligned cellulose chains with 60.4% crystallinity and an orientation factor >0.8.
• Produced cellulose filaments with record tensile strength (1.02 GPa) and toughness (44.08 MJ m-3).
• Demonstrated superior mechanical properties compared to commercial polyamide, polyester, Modal, and Lyocell fibers.

Conclusions:

• The developed technology enables precise molecular-scale control over fiber performance.
• This approach offers a scalable and sustainable manufacturing solution for high-performance regenerated cellulose fibers.
• The new fibers represent a viable eco-friendly alternative to conventional synthetic materials.