| abstract |
Providing cellulose fibers, contacting the fibers with a solution containing a C 2 -C 9 polycarboxylic acid crosslinker, mechanically separating the fibers into substantially individual forms, drying the fibers, and reacting the individualized fibers with the crosslinker A process for producing odor-reduced, individualized crosslinked fibers is disclosed, comprising the steps of forming a crosslink in the fibers. The individualized cellulose fibers are then contacted with a strong alkaline solution and a strong oxidant to reduce odor and increase gloss. Preferably, the crosslinker is citric acid and preferably reacts from about 1.0% to about 12.0% by weight of the crosslinker to form crosslinks in the fibers. Preferably, the alkaline solution is a solution of sodium hydroxide, and preferably about 0.09% by weight sodium hydroxide, based on the dry fiber weight, is added to the crosslinked fibers. Preferably, the oxidant is hydrogen peroxide, preferably about 0.04% by weight of hydrogen peroxide based on the dry fiber weight is added to the crosslinked fibers. Individualized crosslinked fibers with reduced odor are useful for the application of various absorbent structures. |