Thermogravimetric analysis of cotton fibers: Relationships with maturity and fineness

In this study we investigated the relationships between the thermal properties versus maturity and fineness (H) of 80 selected cotton fiber samples. The instrument measurements for maturity and H were (1) micronaire as determined with a high-volume instrument, (2) maturity ratio and H as determined with an advanced fiber information system, and (3) gravimetric H as determined by the cut-and-weigh method. Three regions of thermal decomposition were observed between 37 and 150 degrees C for region 1, between 225 and 425 degrees C for region 11, and between 425 and 600 degrees C for region III. Complete decomposition of the fiber occurred at 600 degrees C. The results showed significant effects of the H/maturity indicators on the weight loss and the peak temperatures in regions II and III. High micronaires (coarse or very mature fibers), high maturity ratios, and low standard H values were associated with low weight losses. However, high weight losses were associated with high primary cell wall areas per unit mass. (c) 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.