Pectin Concentration
Optical analysis quantifies the pectin concentration in flax fibres by detecting light absorption in a chemical solution. Through galacturonic acid spectrophotometry, technicians assess the effectiveness of the retting process. The presence of the acid shows how much gummy substance remains on the cellulose.
High levels of pectin can impede the subsequent spinning of fine yarns.
Light Absorption
Prepared samples undergo hydrolysis to release the acids into a liquid medium where they react with carbazole to form a pink pigment. Measuring the intensity of this color at a specific wavelength provides a numerical value for the concentration. Calibration curves built from known standards allow for the conversion of absorbance into a percentage of total mass.
A controlled laboratory environment prevents contamination from ambient dust or secondary chemical reactions. The equipment measures the photons passing through the cuvette to calculate the density of the molecules.
Processing Efficiency
High concentrations of these chemicals indicate incomplete retting which leads to coarse fibre bundles. Spinning mills use the data to adjust the duration of the hot water treatment. Finished yarn quality depends on the removal of these non-cellulosic components.
The test confirms that the material is ready for the drafting rollers.
