Study of water sorption properties for esparto grass ultimate fibre (ALFA fibre)
Natural fibres present multiple characteristics and are used in many fields such as textiles, technical or medical applications. In this context, we tried to use ligno-cellulosic fibres extracted from esparto (Stipa tenacissima L) as a support fiber in hygienic products. Due to their cellulosic nature, esparto fibres can provide a certain water sorption potential. In fact, fluff pulp was always used as a support fibre in the absorbent core structure of many hygienic products and this is particularly after adding super absorbent polymer (SAP). In this study, we choose to optimise the extraction process of these fibres using an experimental design method in order to obtain ultimate fibres and maximise their absorbent properties (absorbent capacity and retention).