Interpretation of Loss in Strength and Breaking Elongation of Resin-Treated Cotton Fibers Using Microscopical Technique

Abstract

Interpretation of reduction in strength and breaking elongation of resin-treated cotton fibers using a simple light microscope and swelling agent has been shown. The effect of the three factors, namely, resin pickup, setting temperature, and setting time, has been studied. Shape and location of damage for different treatment conditions have been used to deduce the reasons of reduction in both properties. Treatment stages have been broken down to deduce the contribution of each treatment stage to the reduction in strength and breaking elongation. The results obtained showed that the loss in strength and breaking extension of resin-treated cotton fibers is due to the presence of crosslinks and chemical degradation. This is in full agreement with earlier postulation.