Chemical Properties of Cotton Fiber and Chemical Modification

Abstract

Cotton cellulose consists of β-d glucopyranose units covalently linked through 1, 4-glycosidic bonds. There are three hydroxyl groups on each glucose units. Therefore, the chemistry of cellulose is that of OH groups. In this chapter, the chemical properties of cotton fibers and the preparation of cotton textiles for dyeing and chemical finishing are reviewed. Cotton fabric is subjected to different treatment to impart additional beneficial properties. Apart from dyeing to give the color and shade the consumers’ desire, cotton fabric is treated to impart various properties such as water/oil repellency, antimicrobial properties, UV protection, and wrinkle recovery. Other beneficial treatments include softening, flame retardant, and bio-polishing.