Structure and Properties of Cotton Fibers from Controlled Growth Environments

Abstract

The influences of growth environment on gross and fine structures, mechanical properties, and responses to chemical treatments were determined from cotton fibers of Rex and Texas Marker-1 varieties grown under ranges of controlled environment. Cell walls of fibers composed of cellulose deposited at constant and varying temperatures were found to differ in many of their properties. The cell wall thickens more slowly at lower than at higher temperatures and the walls are thinner even though the wall development periods are longer. Properties of fibers indicate that cellulose from the low-temperature environment is less compact and more responsive to chemical reagents than from the high temperatures. The fibers from low temperatures are weaker and more extensible. Relationships between cell wall thickness, fine structure, mechanical properties and chemical reactivities are illustrated.