The Influence of Different Pretreatments on the Quantity of Seed-coat Fragments in Cotton Fibres
Research and development
Author:
- Tavcer Petra Forte
Department of Textiles, Faculty of Natural Science and Engineering, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
 Full text | Abstract: Cotton combing noil, which is used for production of sanitary wadding, was pretreated with pectinases, cellulases and a combination of both enzymes, and subsequently bleached with hydrogen peroxide or peracetic acid. For comparison the fibers were also alkaline scoured and bleached with both oxidants. The influence of the different processes on the amount of seed-coat fragments and on their further elimination was investigated. The amount of pectin, ash and calcium on fibres, water absorbency, damage to fibres and the degree of whiteness and lightness were examined for differently pretreated fibres. The results show that enzymes have positive influence on the mechanical removal of impurities from cotton fibres; however, after the treatment, noncellulosic substances, especially seed-coat fragments, remain on the fibres. The total amount of impurities is reduced by further treatment with peracetic acid. But to meet pharmacological standards, treatment with hydrogen peroxide is required. However, the results show that less pretentious material could be pretreated using alternative methods.˙ |
Tags: cotton, enzymes, bleaching, scouring, seed-coat, combing.