Applications of Nettle Fibre in Textile: A Brief Review

Nettle fibre production in Europe began in the 19^th century and during the First and Second World Wars nettle fibre was promoted as a substitute for cotton. In the 1940s, about 500 ha of nettle fibres were cultivated in Germany and Austria and used for textile production. However, processing facilities for nettle fibres were destroyed during the Second World War and other cost-effective fibres became more readily available. At present, acceptable methods and technology for large scale processing of nettle fibre do not exist. However, a recent survey on processing method for flax and hemp fibres suggests that same might be adapted for processing of nettle fibres. Nettle fibre extracted from the bark of the plant is subject to retting process/ analogous process. Fibre can be blended with other natural or synthetic fibres for making blended yarns with requisite blend ratios to developed fabric, which can be used for developing fashion apparel/ garments, handicrafts products, home textile and technical textile. Fibre properties could be further enhanced by suitable chemical treatment. Nettle fabrics in pure or in blends exhibit good oil sorption properties.