Infrared Spectra of Alkali Treated Degummed Ramie

Infrared spectra of degummed ramie fibers (2-3% gum content) in untreated and alkali treated conditions at room temperature were observed over the frequency range 4000-300 cm -1 using the KBr disk technique. The changes in the spectra are discussed generally. The sharp change in the spectrum due to transition from cellulose I to cellulose II was observed in the concentration range 12-15% (w/w) of alkali. The transition to cellulose II was accompanied by a crimp in the fiber.