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Submitted to: Clothing and Textiles Research Journal
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Publication Acceptance Date: 6/9/2003 Publication Date: 8/1/2004 Citation: Foulk, J.A. HVI and glucose analysis of acid treated, rinsed, and, or heated and autoclaved cotton fibers. Clothing and Textiles Research Journal. 2004. v.22(4), p.178-184. Interpretive Summary: Many events impact cotton fibers, so results from these tests may help with processing in textile mills. Since cotton is produced in the field rather than at a manufacturing facility, it remains difficult to understand all chemical and physical properties that are affected by production, further processing, and utilization. Cotton properties are likely influenced by components (wax, pectin, and sugar) found on the protective coating of all fibers. Bulk testing of multiple cotton fibers with the HVI has led to a broad understanding of the cotton fiber properties in product processing. This study will evaluate how cotton and these surface properties may be affected by heat, acid catalysis, and water rinsing treatments to lower cotton stickiness. Technical Abstract: It remains difficult to understand all chemical and physical cotton properties that are affected by production, processing, and utilization. Cotton differences are not well understood chemically and the protective exterior complexity of cotton further entangles matters. This study evaluates how cotton may by affected by heat, acid catalysis, and water rinsing treatments to lower cotton stickiness. Cotton fiber physical deteriorations and discolorations are known to occur under these instances but little is understood in how the protective cuticle layer including pectins, waxes, and sugars affect fiber properties. This study evaluated steps that could be taken at the cotton gin or textile mill to adequately remove sugar from cotton. Heat treatments, rinsing, and acid catalysis likely all affect the surface components and cotton fibers themselves. Citric acid catalysis, water rinsing, and additional heat (both dry and steam) appear to lower cotton sugar levels. Water rinsing appears to be the most advantageous process to lower sugar levels while maintaining or improving fiber quality. |
