Raw cotton refers to the cotton fibers that have been separated from the seeds (ginned) but have not yet been processed into yarn or fabric. It often contains some remaining plant matter and has a natural coating of oils and waxes. The quality of raw cotton is judged by several factors, including staple length, strength, micronaire (fiber fineness), color, and the amount of trash content.
Raw Cotton
The primary use of raw cotton is in the textile industry:
- Yarn Production: It is spun into yarn, which is then used for weaving or knitting into various fabrics.
- Fabric Manufacturing: These fabrics are used to make a wide array of products, including clothing (jeans, shirts, socks, t-shirts), home goods (bed sheets, towels, upholstery), and industrial products (tents, tarpaulins, fishing nets).
- Other Uses: Raw cotton and its byproducts are also used in medical supplies (cotton balls, bandages), paper production, coffee filters, and even in the production of cottonseed oil (from the seeds) used in cooking and other industries. The very short fibers (linters) are used in products like bandages and swabs.
Attribute Details Country of Origin India Staple Length Short (below 20mm), Medium (20.5-24.5mm), Medium Long (25-27mm), Long (27.5-32mm), Extra Long (32.5mm+) Strength Measured in grams per tex (gpt), varies by type Micronaire Measures fiber fineness (typically between 3.0 and 5.0 NCL) Trash Content Percentage of non-cotton material (lower is better) Moisture Content Typically around 7.5% to 9% Color Grade Ranges based on whiteness and lack of discoloration