A Comparative Study of the Specific Surface Area of Some Egyptian Cotton Varieties before and after Chemical Treatments under Different Maturity Levels
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63456/tsrj-2-3-57Keywords:
Egyptian cotton, specific surface area, methylene blue absorption, mercerization, maturity ratio, extra Giza 93, super Giza 94, Giza 98Abstract
Purposes: The specific surface area (SSA) is an important structural feature that affects how cotton fibers interact with dyes, finishing agents, and moisture. Because SSA influences mass transfer, it is closely linked to textile processing efficiency. However, there is limited quantitative analysis of SSA across different cotton varieties, maturity levels, and treatment conditions. This study measures SSA differences among selected Egyptian cotton varieties, looks at how fiber maturity affects SSA, evaluates the impact of chemical treatments on fiber structure, and compares the reliability of two SSA measurement methods.
Design and methods: The study used three Egyptian cotton varieties: extra Giza 93 (extra-long, extra-fine staple), Super Giza 94 (long staple), and Giza 98 (long staple). All samples were homogenized and conditioned under standard conditions (20 ± 1°C, 65 ± 2% relative humidity). Maturity ratios were measured and grouped using an image analyzer, and samples were classified as Immature, Medium, or High maturity based on international standards. Fibers underwent scouring and mercerization, and some were dyed. SSA was measured using both the Worley method and methylene blue adsorption. Mechanical and physical properties were tested with standard textile methods. Statistical analysis determined the significance of the results.
Findings: SSA values obtained from the Worley method decreased with increasing maturity, ranging from approximately 0.85 to 1.45 m²/g. In contrast, methylene blue adsorption yielded higher values (45–120 m²/g), reflecting internal surface accessibility. Mercerization increased SSA by up to 35% in immature fibers. Mature fibers showed higher strength but lower accessibility. A statistically significant interaction (p < 0.05) was observed between fiber maturity and treatment. The results show that there exists a strong correlation between the structure of fibers, specific surface area, and their mechanical properties. A higher specific surface area, especially considering internal surfaces, helps in improving the uptake of dyeing agents and water molecules. But although high crystallinity is good for improving tensile strength, it is also responsible for reducing accessibility.
Originality/value: This study integrates structural and surface characterization methods to provide a thorough understanding of SSA behavior in Egyptian cotton. It highlights the importance of selecting appropriate processing conditions based on fiber maturity to improve textile performance.
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