rohfaser

Rohfaser is a term used in German-speaking contexts to denote fiber materials in their unprocessed form. It encompasses natural fibers obtained from plants or animals as well as synthetic polymer fibers before further processing. Rohfasern serve as basic feedstock for downstream manufacturing such as spinning into yarn, conversion into fabrics or nonwovens, papermaking, and as reinforcement in composite materials.

In textiles, rohfaser may be natural fibers such as flax, hemp, cotton, wool, or silk in their raw state, either as long fibers or as staple fibers before spinning. Synthetic rohfaser covers polymer filaments or tow that have not yet been drawn, textured, or assembled into yarns. The distinction between rohfaser and finished fiber products reflects the current stage in the production chain.

Processing of rohfaser involves cleaning and conditioning, and for natural fibers may include retting, decortication, scutching, mechanical opening, carding or combing. For composites, rohfaser may be chopped into short lengths or kept as continuous fibers, depending on the intended reinforcement. The form of the fiber (loose, tow, or cut) influences handling, processing, and final properties.

Properties and applications depend on fiber type and processing history. Natural rohfaser typically exhibit higher moisture absorption and variability in strength and diameter, while synthetic rohfaser can offer greater uniformity and mechanical performance. Applications include nonwoven fabrics, reinforcement in polymer matrices for automotive or construction components, and specialized papers or filters.

Environmental and standards aspects vary by fiber type. Rohfasern are generally renewable resources, but their ecological footprint depends on cultivation, extraction, and processing steps. Quality is governed by industry specifications for purity, length, fineness, and other performance metrics.