Properties of Cotton
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.
