Air-gap spinning of cellulose/ionic liquid solution and its characterization

In order to study the effects of the spinning conditions on the structure and the properties of the regenerated fiber, cellulose was dissolved in ionic liquid and then spun into fiber using an air-gap spinning process. The solution concentration, the take-up speed and the fixation of the fiber ends during coagulation improved the crystallinity and the tensile strength at the same time. The fiber surface became smooth by addition of DMF (dimethylformamide). However, it decreased the crystallinity and the tensile strength of the fibers. We revealed that the developed structure during coagulation determined the morphology and the properties of the fibers. The co-solvent resulted in smooth surface of the fiber and also changed the mechanical properties.