Abstract
Biodegradable as-spun linear aliphatic-aromatic co-polyester (AAC) fibers were processed under a fractional factorial design as a function of hot-drawing conditions using appropriate experimental and statistical methodology. The multi-stage hot-drawing process and overall orientation of the biodegradable AAC fibers were characterized and statistically analyzed. The results obtained showed that the most effective and significant parameters influencing fiber overall orientation are the draw ratio and the drawing temperature. Birefringence is affected positively by draw ratio and plate temperature, and negatively by drawing temperature, the interaction between drawing stage and relaxation temperature, relaxation temperature and the interaction between draw ratio and spin finish. From results and analysis, a combination of factor levels was designed for controlling the birefringence of the material studied using the regression equations obtained. A new forecasting statistical model has been suggested for optimizing the drawing process effect. Such optimized (AAC) fibers could be used in agricultural, horticultural and other textile applications.