Effects of Heating on Chemical and Physical Properties and Processing Quality of Cotton

Abstract

Optimum quality from cotton at the textile mill depends on the need for improvements in a number of handling areas. Processing and yarn quality problems sometimes occur through overdrying practices. Excessive heating of cotton causes discoloration (yellowing), reductions in strength, and increased fiber breakage. The severity of damage increases as exposure time and temperature increase. Chemical and physical tests were conducted on heated cottons of high, medium, and low Micronaires to determine changes that may affect cotton processability and overall quality. Mechanical processing of cotton immediately after heating (at reduced moisture levels) had a greater adverse effect on physical fiber properties than did mechanical processing after heating and allowing time for moisture regain. Compared to yarn from unheated cottons, yarns from heated cottons had increased levels of neps and reduced strength and uniformity.