Cotton fiber possesses various
properties, that makes it useful in different industries. Some of them are:
- Strength: The cotton fiber is
relatively strong because of the intrinsic structures of layers of the
criss crossed, minute, spiraled that compose the fiber cell. Compact
construction , represented by the high thread count, this in turn helps
to keep the fabric in shape and last longer. Strength of cotton fiber
can be substantially improved by mercerizing or ammoniating.
- Elasticity: elasticity is the extent to
which a fiber can be elongated or stretched and the then returned to its
normal condition and size. Cotton fiber has very little natural
elasticity. Mercerization is sometimes done for providing some stretch.
- Resilience: Resilience refers to the
extent to which a fabric can be deformed by crushing or compressing it,
and finally returning it to its original condition. Cotton tends to
wrinkle easily, this may be offset by employing finishing processes that
give the fiber a wrinkle resistant quality.
- Absorbency: Absorbency refers to the
extent to which moisture can penetrate into a fiber. The cellulose
content present in cotton, makes it very absorbent.
- Heat Conductivity: Heat conductivity
refers to the extent to which heat can be conveyed through a fiber.
Cotton fiber is known to have a high degree of heat conductivity. ,
therefore it is a cool fiber. It is often used for manufacturing cool
fabrics.
