Reaction Rate
Kinetic measurement of the speed at which complex carbohydrates in the flax cell wall break down and enter a solution. Polyuronide solubilization kinetics describe how the pectic substances react over time when exposed to scouring chemicals or enzymes. This property governs the duration of the degumming cycle in a linen mill.
Process Optimization
Analysis of these kinetics allows mill engineers to design efficient treatment schedules. By understanding the rate of decay, the mill can reduce the energy consumption of the boiling vats without compromising the quality of the fibre. Faster polyuronide solubilization kinetics are generally observed at higher temperatures, but this also increases the risk of cellulose degradation.
The relationship between time and concentration is mapped to find the optimal point for stopping the reaction. Automation systems in modern plants use this data to control the process.
Fibre Uniformity
Variability in these kinetics can lead to differences in the quality of the yarn produced from different flax lots. Flax grown in different regions or harvested at different maturity levels will exhibit different rates of solubilization. If the polyuronide solubilization kinetics are not accounted for, some batches may be under-processed and remain stiff, while others become over-processed and weak.
Testing the solubilization rate on small samples before bulk processing ensures a uniform result across the entire production run. Uniformity is required for achieving a consistent finish in the final linen textile.
