Retting is a process employing the action of micro-organisms and moisture on plants to dissolve or rot away much of the cellular tissues and pectins surrounding bast-fibre bundles, facilitating the separation of the fibre from the stem. [1] It is used in the production of linen from flax stalks and coir from coconut husks.

Retting is essential in priming the flax plants for textile usability. The process begins after the flax crop has reached maturity and it is pulled from the ground, but before it is collected from the field.

Jun 23, 2017 · Growing flax for fiber to spin into linen requires many steps. Once it is harvested and the seeds removed, it needs to be retted. Retting flax is the process of freeing the flax fibers from...

Oct 4, 2024 · Retting is a controlled process of natural decomposition that uses moisture, bacteria, and fungi to break down the pectin—a glue-like substance that holds the flax fibers together in the stalk. The goal is to weaken and dissolve the pectin so that the fibers can be easily separated from the stem.

REtting Flax Tips and tricks. RETTING: The process of detaching the fibres from the tissue around them using water to rot away the plant material. Dew retting: Lay the flax out on a mowed grass area.

Jan 15, 2025 · Place flax in a well-ventilated area to ensure it dries properly. Processing Flax Fibers. The retting process is vital for processing flax fibers. It helps separate the fibers from the stalk. This process can be done through water or dew. Water retting uses water to …

Sep 14, 2018 · The retting process separates the flax fibers from the cellulose core with the help of humidity and mould. You can use running water, dew or snow – water retting, dew retting or snow retting. These methods take different amounts of time …

Mar 23, 2015 · 1. Dam Retting : The flax plants after pulling are tied up in sheaves or beats and immersed for about ten days in water in special am or ponds dug in the ground. This method is commonly used in Ireland. 2. Dew Retting :

Apr 30, 2016 · Retting, in which the unwanted fibers are loosened and decomposed, can be achieved in several ways. The flax can be left out in the field, where the exposure to the elements, particularly the moisture in the air, can do the work.

Jul 17, 2017 · Retting. Flax fibers are attached to the woody stem of the plant by natural pectins. Dissolving these pectins is vital to extract the fibers from the stem without breaking them. For this, farmers rely on a process called retting. As opposed to pulling, retting needs moist.