A new or improved process for retting flax

摘要

151,143. Johnson, L. A. Aug. 20, 1919. Retting. - In obtaining fibres from flax, the straw, prior to retting, is treated in one stage, or in a number of stages extending over successively increasing periods of time, with an alkaline solvent to remove the whole or a greater portion of the gum and resin compounds, and the retting operation is carried out in an alkaline medium. A natural soda, such as Magadi soda, occurring in East Africa, may be used, and in the retting operation, which is preferably effected at 80‹- 95‹ F., the liquid is continuously aerated and circulated.