Influence of Cross-Sectional Shape of Raw Cotton on Dimensional Changes in Mercerization Without Tension

The relation of the cross-sectional shape of the raw fiber to the changes that occur upon mer cerization without tension was studied for a number of cotton varieties representing a wide range of maturities. Perimeters and diameters of fiber cross sections were measured by the use of an especially de signed instrument. Areas also were measured. It was found that the percent increase in area and the percent decrease in perimeter caused by loose mercerization are dependent upon the cross-sectional shape of the original raw fibers. Flat fibers shrank more in perimeter and increased more in area than did round fibers. This was partly explained as being due to a change toward circularity.