Cottons importance as a crop and as a textile fibre is still significant. However, its importance has been and will continue to be seriously challenged by the growth in consumption of man-made fibre, particularly polyester. This book is divided into three parts. The first part, covering seven chapters, describes the chemical and physical properties of cotton fibre. These chapters focus on the differences between cotton and polyester fibre properties, and highlight areas researchers will need to pursue to keep cotton competitive. Two lesser discussed properties receive attention: Cotton fibres wax layer and cotton celluloses glass transition temperature. The hydrophobic wax layer that protects cotton during mechanical processing and aids the dispersal of its seed by water, has been central in the development of the spinning technology used by cotton and polyester fibre alike. The wax provides lubrication between the fibre surface and the processing surfaces during opening, carding and spinning. The chapter on cotton celluloses glass transition temperature introduces the less appreciated concept that cottons cellulose can be plasticised at particular temperatures and moisture contents, wherein cottons mechanical properties, e.g. elongation to break, can be improved. The range of fibre property values and the variation found in cotton stand as markers for future researchers to improve by way of plant and crop management, breeding (including genetic modification), and chemical processing. Long standing objectives include longer, stronger and finer fibre, which all translate to better looking and performing yarn and fabric. However, properties that give cotton fabric improved resilience, drape and dyed-colour appearance also stand as objectives to improve cottons competitiveness. The second part of the book introduces uses of cotton that are less considered; cotton nonwovens, bandages impregnated with natural anti-microbial agents and cellulose aerogels are products with excellent potential, and deserve further research and development. Standard textile products are not discussed in this section. These are discussed in the third and final part of the book. The final four chapters focus on the current performance of cotton in different apparel and home furnishing markets, in the commodity marketplace, and in spinning and dyeing. These final chapters point to a challenging future for cotton if the industry and its researchers curtail their pursuit of better crop productivity, fibre quality, processing technology and product development.

Despite the increased variety of manufactured fibres available to the textile industry, demand for cotton remains high because of its suitability on the basis of price, quality and comfort across a wide range of textile products. Cotton producing nations are also embracing sustainable production practices to meet growing consumer demand for sustainable resource production. This important book provides a comprehensive analysis of the key scientific and technological advances that ensure the quality of cotton is maintained from the field to fabric.The first part of the book discusses the fundamental chemical and physical structure of cotton and its various properties. Advice is offered on measuring and ensuring the quality of cotton fibre. Building on these basics, Part two analyses various means for producing cotton such as genetic modification and organic production. Chapters focus on spinning, knitting and weaving technologies as well as techniques in dyeing. The final section of the book concludes with chapters concerned with practical aspects within the industry such as health and safety issues and recycling methods for used cotton.Written by an array of international experts within the field, Cotton: science and technology is an essential reference for all those concerned with the manufacture and quality control of cotton. - Summarises key scientific and technological issues in ensuring cotton quality - Discusses the fundamental chemical and physical structure of cotton - Individual chapters focus on spinning, knitting and weaving technologies

This book provides a comprehensive and systematic overview of the recent developments in cotton production and processing, including a number of genetic approaches, such as GM cotton for pest resistance, which have been hotly debated in recent decades. In the era of climate change, cotton is facing diverse abiotic stresses such as salinity, drought, toxic metals and environmental pollutants. As such, scientists are developing stress-tolerant cultivars using agronomic, genetic and molecular approaches. Gathering papers on these developments, this timely book is a valuable resource for a wide audience, including plant scientists, agronomists, soil scientists, botanists, environmental scientists and extention workers.

Natural fiber-reinforced composites have the potential to replace synthetic composites, leading to less expensive, stronger and more environmentally-friendly materials. This book provides a detailed review on how a broad range of biofibers can be used as reinforcements in composites and assesses their overall performance. The book is divided into five major parts according to the origins of the different biofibers. Part I contains chapters on bast fibers, Part II; leaf fibers, Part III; seed fibers, Part IV; grass, reed and cane fibers, and finally Part V covers wood, cellulosic and other fibers including cellulosic nanofibers. Each chapter reviews a specific type of biofiber providing detailed information on the sources of each fiber, their cultivation, how to process and prepare them, and how to integrate them into composite materials. The chapters outline current and potential applications for each fiber and discuss their main strengths and weaknesses. - The book is divided into five major parts according to the origins of the different biofibers - bast, leaf, seed; grass, reed and cane fibers, and finally wood, cellulosic and other fibers including cellulosic nanofibers. - This book provides a detailed review on how a broad range of biofibers can be used as reinforcements in composites and assesses their overall performance - The chapters outline current and potential applications for each fiber and discuss their main strengths and weaknesses

A history of cotton's impact on the world describes how the fiber has been at the center of conflict and controversy, rendering nations into industrial powers.

An essential reference for anyone searching for ways to avoid or mitigate the problem of cotton stickiness.

'How We Use Cotton' will give you answers to these and many other questions: Where does cotton come from? How can you recycle cotton? Why don't we use cotton to make warm clothes?

Provides a comprehensive overview of the role of cotton in the economy and cotton production around the world This book offers a complete look at the world’s largest fiber crop: cotton. It examines its effect on the global economy—its uses and products, harvesting and processing, as well as the major challenges and their solutions, recent trends, and modern technologies involved in worldwide production of cotton. Cotton Production presents recent developments achieved by major cotton producing regions around the world, including China, India, USA, Pakistan, Turkey and Europe, South America, Central Asia, and Australia. In addition to origin and history, it discusses the recent advances in management practices, as well as the agronomic challenges and the solutions in the major cotton producing areas of the world. Keeping a focus on global context, the book provides sufficient details regarding the management of cotton crops. These details are not limited to the choice of cultivar, soil management, fertilizer and water management, pest control, cotton harvesting, and processing. The first book to cover all aspects of cotton production in a global context Details the role of cotton in the economy, the uses and products of cotton, and its harvesting and processing Discusses the current state of cotton management practices and issues within and around the world’s cotton producing areas Provides insight into the ways to improve cotton productivity in order to keep pace with the growing needs of an increasing population Cotton Production is an essential book for students taking courses in agronomy and cropping systems as well as a reference for agricultural advisors, extension specialists, and professionals throughout the industry.

Life cycle assessment (LCA) is used to evaluate the environmental impacts of textile products, from raw material extraction, through fibre processing, textile manufacture, distribution and use, to disposal or recycling. LCA is an important tool for the research and development process, product and process design, and labelling of textiles and clothing. Handbook of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of Textiles and Clothing systematically covers the LCA process with comprehensive examples and case studies. Part one of the book covers key indicators and processes in LCA, from carbon and ecological footprints to disposal, re-use and recycling. Part two then discusses a broad range of LCA applications in the textiles and clothing industry. - Covers the LCA process and its key indicators, including carbon and ecological footprints, disposal, re-use and recycling - Examines the key developments of LCA in the textile and clothing industries - Provides a wide range of case studies and examples of LCA applications in the textile and clothing industries