An electron microscopy study of cotton fibers mercerized at elevated temperatures

The effect of mercerization at elevatcd temperatures upon cotton fiber substructure has been studied by electron microscopic techniques. Results indicate that even though some advantages can be attained by raising the temperature of the caustic solution, fiber suhstructure exhibits anomalous hehavior. Photomicrographs of fibers from yarns treated at the extreme temperature ranges reveal a skin-core appearance. The conversion of cellulose I to cellulose II crystalline structure normally associated with mercerization is retarded at elevated temperatures as shown by x-ray analysis.