Pilot-scale spinning and sucrose-tetra-aldehydes-crosslinking of feather-derived protein fibers with improved mechanical properties and water resistance

Pliable and water-resistant protein fibers from feathers were developed via continuous one-step spinning crosslinking using sucrose-tetra-aldehydes. Though flexible developed, poor wet stability low tenacity still limit the large high-end applications of feather-derived fibers. Despite that saccharide aldehydes are considered as an efficient sustainable crosslinker, substantial concerns such generation formaldehyde, high consumption modifiers, loss mechanical properties, yellowing, decline in dyeability fibers, exist after crosslinking. In this work, we controlled structures crosslinkers incorporated disaccharide-tetra-aldehydes into a wet-spinning line. No formaldehyde was generated whole process. Protein with aldimine crosslinkages had not only 92% retention immersed water for 1 week but also increase properties. The dry 120% 90% wool, respectively. Moreover, retained color minimized amine groups, dyeing sites, on keratin. toxicity introduced by This work promotes resource recovery poultry wastes, decreases reliance fiber industry petroleum-based products, diminishes environmental impact industries.