Cotton Fibers, Their Composites and Applications

Abstract

Cotton fibers are naturally occurring biodegradable polymer which is frequently employed to reinforce polymer composite. The crystalline and fibrillar structure of cotton is responsible for its remarkable strength. It also possesses good heat conductivity, resilience, and elasticity. The cotton reinforced composites displaced desirable properties and was explored in textile, construction, and automobile fields. The properties of cotton polymer composites could be improved by the surface treatment. The surface treated composites possess improved mechanical properties such as tensile strength, elongation at break, hardness, etc. This chapter focuses on the structure, composition, and properties of polymer/cotton fiber composites. The industrial application of cotton fiber reinforced polymer composites are also highlighted. © 2022 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.