Introduction on Plant Fibres (Cotton & Jute): Definition, Types, List of Examples and their Uses

Plant Fibres Overview

Fabric is the term used to describe the material produced through the processes of weaving and knitting. It is composed of thin strands of thread known as yarn, which in turn is made up of even finer strands called fibres. Fibres obtained from natural sources such as plants and animals are referred to as natural fibres. Common examples of natural fibres include cotton, jute, wool, and silk. On the other hand, fibres that are created through chemical processes and are synthetic in nature are known as synthetic fibres. Popular examples of synthetic fibres include polyester, nylon, and acrylic.

Plant fibres, also known as natural fibres, are obtained from various plants. These fibres occur naturally in plants and are considered natural materials. Cotton, jute, flax, and other similar fibres are examples of natural plant fibres. Additionally, fibres obtained from animals are also classified as natural fibres, such as wool.

What are Plant Fibres? 

Natural fibres or "plant fibres" is a type that can be derived from different plants. They are robust, long-lasting, and versatile fibres composed of cellulose, a complex carbohydrate. In the manufacturing of paper, textiles, and other goods, they are frequently employed. Cotton, flax, hemp, jute, bamboo, and others are a few examples of plant fibres. These fibres can be treated in various ways to yield various goods, such as strong and resilient jute fibres for bags and ropes or soft and absorbent cotton fibres for garments. A more environmentally friendly option to synthetic fibres is plant fibres, which are renewable and biodegradable.

Types of Plant Fibres

Plant fibres can be categorized into three main types:

Seed fibres:

Seed fibres are obtained from the seeds of plants. Examples of seed fibres include cotton and kapok. Cotton fibres, for instance, are obtained from the seedpods of the cotton plant.

Bast fibres:

Bast fibres are derived from the outer covering of the plant's stem, known as the bast or phloem. These fibres are collected from the inner bark or bast of plants. Examples of bast fibres include jute, flax, and hemp. Jute fibres, often referred to as golden fibres due to their color, are obtained from the jute plant.

Hard fibres:

Hard fibres are collected from the leaves of certain plants. A notable example is coir, which is obtained from the hard shell of coconuts. Coir is commonly used in making ropes and mats.

In addition to these plant parts, fibres can also be obtained from grasses, wood, and other sources.

Plant Fibres List

Plant fibres include things like cotton, jute, hemp, flax, bamboo, coir, sisal, and more. Let's go into more detail about a few of them.

Jute fibres

Jute fibres are classified as bast fibres and are obtained from the stem of jute plants. These fibres are long, shiny, and soft. They possess greater strength compared to fibres like cotton. Jute is an affordable fibre and finds applications in twine, rope, bags, and doormats.

Cotton fibres

 Cotton fibres are seed fibres obtained from the seeds of cotton plants. They are soft, fluffy, and highly absorbent. Cotton has been used since ancient times and is found in regions like South Asia, America, Arabia, Iran, China, and India. It is extensively used in bath towels, the textile industry, the pharmaceutical industry, and various other fields.

Flax fibres

 Similar to jute fibres, flax fibres are also bast fibres. It is predominantly cultivated in cooler regions of the world. These fibres are 2-3 times stronger than cotton fibres and possess a naturally smooth and straight structure. Flax fibres are used in the textile industry, high-quality paper production, surgical threads, and more.

Hemp fibres

 Hemp fibres, like jute and flax fibres, are another example of bast fibres. It is utilized in the production of ropes, shoes, food paper, bioplastics, biofuel, animal bedding, and garden mulch.

Coir

Coir is a seed fibre obtained from the coconut. It is a natural fibre, and the longest coir fibre is known as bristle coir. Coir is also referred to as "coconut cotton." It is used in the manufacturing of doormats, brushes, mattresses, packaging materials, bedding, and flooring. Additionally, it finds applications in agriculture and horticulture.

Read more about the Entomophily or Insect Pollination and Scientific Names of Animals and Plants.

Types of Natural Fibres

Nature offers a vast array of resources, and humans have tapped into these opportunities, particularly in the acquisition of plant fibres. Here are some types of plant fibres:

Cotton fibres

Cotton fibres are obtained from cotton plants, which thrive in warm climates with black soil. After maturation, the cotton plant fruits burst open, and the seeds are collected.

Jute fibres

Jute fibres are obtained from the stem of the jute plant. It is cultivated during the rainy season, and the process of harvesting is known as retting. The plant's stems are submerged in water for a few days, and then the fibres are separated by hand through a process called stripping.

Coconut fibres

Coconut fibres, also known as coir, are obtained from the outer shell of coconuts. It is used in various applications, including ropes, mats, and as a filling material.

Linen fibres

Linen fibres are obtained from the stems of the flax plant. It is used in the production of ropes, tablecloths, napkins, and high-quality paper. Linen is found in subtropical regions, with significant production concentrated in North Dakota and Minnesota. The fibres are soft, and flexible, and give a shiny appearance.

Kapok

Kapok, also known as silk cotton, is another type of plant fibre. It is derived from the kapok tree, specifically from the ripened and burst fruits. Kapok fibres are light, fluffy, and water-repellent, making them suitable for thermal and sound insulation, as well as filling materials in mattresses and life jackets.

Components of Plant Fibres

The components of plant fibre can be described as follows:

1. Cellulose: Cellulose is the primary component of plant fibre and is responsible for its strength and structural integrity. It forms long chains of glucose molecules, providing rigidity to the fibre.
2. Hemicellulose: Hemicellulose is a complex carbohydrate that is found alongside cellulose in plant fibres. It contributes to the flexibility and cohesion of the fibre.
3. Lignin: Lignin is a complex polymer that provides rigidity and resistance to plant fibre. It acts as a binding substance between cellulose and hemicellulose, giving strength to the fibre.
4. Pectin: Pectin is a type of complex carbohydrate that is found in the middle lamella of plant cells. It acts as a cementing material, holding plant cells together and providing cohesion to the fibre.
5. Proteins: Some plant fibres may contain proteins, which can contribute to their strength and flexibility. Protein fibres, such as those found in cotton, have unique properties that make them suitable for textile applications.

Characteristics of Plant Fibres

Plant fibres possess various characteristics and properties that make them valuable for different applications. Here are some key characteristics of plant fibres:

1. Strength: Plant fibres can exhibit impressive strength, especially when compared to their weight. Fibres like jute, hemp, and flax are known for their high tensile strength, which makes them suitable for applications requiring durability and resistance to tension.
2. Flexibility: Plant fibres often have good flexibility, allowing them to be easily bent or twisted without breaking. This property makes them suitable for weaving and knitting processes, enabling the production of fabrics with drape and elasticity.
3. Moisture Absorption: Many plant fibres have natural moisture-absorbing properties. They can absorb moisture from the environment or sweat, providing breathability and comfort when used in textiles. Cotton is particularly known for its high moisture absorption capacity.
4. Breathability: Plant fibres tend to offer good breathability due to their porous structure. They allow air circulation, preventing the build-up of heat and moisture. This characteristic makes plant fibre textiles comfortable to wear, especially in warm climates.
5. Biodegradability: One of the notable advantages of plant fibres is their biodegradable nature. They are derived from natural sources and can decompose organically, reducing environmental impact and waste accumulation.
6. Hypoallergenic: Certain plant fibres, such as cotton and bamboo, have hypoallergenic properties. They are less likely to cause allergic reactions or skin irritations, making them suitable for individuals with sensitive skin.
7. Thermal Insulation: Some plant fibres possess excellent thermal insulation properties. Fibres like wool and kapok have natural insulating properties that help regulate body temperature, making them ideal for cold-weather clothing and bedding.
8. Eco-Friendly: Plant fibres are generally considered environmentally friendly because they are renewable resources. Their production involves fewer chemicals and energy compared to synthetic fibres, reducing the carbon footprint.
9. Versatility: Plant fibres can be processed and used in various forms, including yarns, fabrics, ropes, mats, and more. They can be blended with other fibres to enhance specific properties and expand their applications.
10. Aesthetics: Plant fibres often exhibit natural beauty and texture, enhancing the visual appeal of textiles and decorative items. They can be dyed and woven in different patterns, offering versatility in design.

Plant Fibres Uses

1. The textile business generally uses fibres like cotton, jute, and linen (flax) to make clothing.
2. To make bags and sacks for holding products, jute fibres are employed.
3. Both the whole flaxseed and the oil are utilized in cooking. Cattle feed is made from leftover flaxseed material after the oil has been extracted. Clothes are made from flax fibres in the textile industry.
4. Coir is a different type of plant fibre that is utilized to make ropes, doormats, brushes, beds, etc. Due to its effectiveness as a soil conditioner, it is also included in potting soil blends like coco peat.

Plant Fibres Things to Remember

1. Fibre can be described as fine threads that are used to create various types of clothing.
2. Based on whether they are created artificially or natively, fibres can be divided into natural and synthetic categories.
3. Depending on where they come from, natural fibres can be divided into two groups: plant fibres and animal fibres.
4. There are various types of plant fibres, including seed, leaf, bast, fruit, and stalk fibre.
5. Cotton, jute, flax, and coir are a few of the most popular plant fibres utilized today.
6. Plant fibres are readily available, eco-friendly, and natural. 
7. Jute can only grow in alluvial soil with standing water. The flowering stage of the jute plant is when it is collected. After harvesting, the plant's stem is soaked in water for a few days. This procedure is known as retting.