The Effect of Chemical and Physical Treatment on Morphology, Wet Strength, and Water Absorption of Kapok Fiber-Based Absorbent

Abstract

Paper-based absorbents have attracted increasing attention as sustainable fiber-based materials for wet-environment applications. However, their limited wet strength remains a major challenge, particularly when the absorbent is exposed to water or moisture during use. Therefore, this study focused on improving the wet strength of kapok fiber-based handsheet absorbents for potential use under wet conditions. Sheet adsorbents made of fibrillated kapok fibers of different lengths were prepared by exposing the kapok fibers to pretreatment using sodium hypochlorite (TT), followed by the wet ball milling (BM) technique for a certain duration. Azide–alkyne click modification was employed to enhance the mechanical properties of the handsheet-based adsorbent under wet conditions. On the basis of the wet strength study, the clicked handsheet performed better in both wet tensile and wet bursting properties as compared with the control condition. The clicked TT1 BM6 handsheet was the best as far as wet strength and water absorption were concerned. The enhancement of wet strength shows the great potential of the clicked kapok fibers to be utilized as adsorbents under wet conditions.