Cotton - Fiber Properties

Fiber Properties

Property Evaluation
Shape Fairly uniform in width, 12–20 micrometers; length varies from 1 cm to 6 cm (½ to 2½ inches); typical length is 2.2 cm to 3.3 cm (⅞ to 1¼ inches).
Luster high
Tenacity (strength)
Dry
Wet
3.0–5.0 g/d
3.3–6.0 g/d
Resiliency low
Density 1.54–1.56 g/cm³
Moisture absorption
raw: conditioned
saturation
mercerized: conditioned
saturation
8.5%
15–25%
8.5–10.3%
15–27%+
Dimensional stability good
Resistance to
acids
alkali
organic solvents
sunlight
microorganisms
insects
damage, weaken fibers
resistant; no harmful effects
high resistance to most
Prolonged exposure weakens fibers.
Mildew and rot-producing bacteria damage fibers.
Silverfish damage fibers.
Thermal reactions
to heat
to flame
Decomposes after prolonged exposure to temperatures of 150˚C or over.
Burns readily.

The chemical composition of cotton is as follows:

  • cellulose 91.00%
  • water 7.85%
  • protoplasm, pectins 0.55%
  • waxes, fatty substances 0.40%
  • mineral salts 0.20%

Read more about this topic:  Cotton

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