Biological Source of Cotton
Scientific Name: Gossypium hirsutum, Gossypium barbadense, Gossypium arboreum, and Gossypium herbaceum.
Family: Malvaceae
Part Used: The fibers are derived from the seed coat of the cotton plant.
Chemical Nature
Cotton fibers are predominantly composed of cellulose, a polysaccharide consisting of β-D-glucose units linked by β(1→4) glycosidic bonds. The high degree of crystallinity of cellulose in cotton fibers contributes significantly to their mechanical strength and durability.
Chemical Composition:
Cellulose: Approximately 90-95%
Non-cellulosic components: Including waxes (0.5-1%), proteins (1-1.5%), pectins (1-1.5%), and trace amounts of minerals and other substances. The chemical structure of cellulose in cotton is characterized by the following:
Molecular Formula: (C6H10O5)n
Degree of Polymerization: Approximately 10,000 glucose units per molecule.
Uses of Cotton
1. Textile Industry: Cotton is a crucial raw material in the production of various textiles. Its natural properties of softness, breathability, and high absorbency make it ideal for clothing, bed linens, and other fabric-based products.
2. Medical Applications:
Surgical Cotton (Absorbent Cotton): Purified cotton is used extensively in medical settings for making bandages, gauze, and cotton swabs due to its high absorbency and hypoallergenic nature.
Cotton Pads and Balls: Utilized for cleaning wounds, applying medications, and in cosmetic procedures for their gentleness and efficacy.
3. Industrial Uses:
Paper Manufacturing: Cotton linters, the short fibers left after the ginning process, are used in the production of high-quality papers such as banknotes and specialty papers.
Filtration: Cotton fibers are employed in various filtration applications, including air, liquid, and oil filters, due to their effective filtration properties.
4. Agricultural Uses:
Cottonseed Oil: Extracted from the seeds, this oil is used in culinary applications, as well as in the production of margarine and salad dressings. It is also a component in some industrial products.
Cottonseed Meal: The residue left after oil extraction is used as a high-protein animal feed and as an organic fertilizer.
5. Cosmetic and Personal Care Applications:
Cotton-Based Products: Such as cotton balls, pads, and swabs, are widely used for makeup removal, cleansing, and personal hygiene due to their softness and absorbency.
6. Miscellaneous Uses:
Cotton Batting: Employed as stuffing for pillows, mattresses, and upholstery due to its resilience and softness.
Crafts and DIY Projects: Cotton fibers are popular in crafting, used for making yarn, rope, and other creative projects.
In summary, cotton is a highly versatile natural fiber with extensive applications across various industries, primarily due to its unique chemical and physical properties. Its high cellulose content, combined with minor non-cellulosic components, enables its use in textiles, medical supplies, industrial products, agriculture, cosmetics, and numerous other fields.