Effect of Sodium Hydroxide Concentrations on Selected Cotton Fiber Properties

Abstract

Three samples of cotton fibers were treated slack with concentrations of sodium hydroxide from 4 to 28%. The Digital Fibrograph, Stelometer, and Arealometer were used to measure the effects of treatment concentrations on length, zero- and 1/8-in gauge tenacity, elongation, 'and fineness parameters. Density was measured with a density-gradient column. Fiber length, surface area, zero-gauge tenacity, stiffness, and bulk density decreased; and wall thickness; elongation, and toughness increased with increasing concentrations. One-eighth-in.-gauge fiber tenacity increased up to complete mercerization and then decreased with increased concentrations.