Raw cotton or ginned cotton can be described using a variety of parameters. Here is a list of some common parameters used to characterize cotton:
- Staple Length: It refers to the length of the individual cotton fibers. Staple length is usually measured in millimeters (mm) or inches (in).
- Micronaire: It is a measure of the fineness of the cotton fibers. Micronaire values range from 2.5 to 7.5, with lower values indicating finer fibers.
- Fiber Strength: It is a measure of the force required to break a bundle of cotton fibers. Fiber strength is typically measured in grams per tex (g/tex).
- Color Grade: It refers to the color of the cotton fibers. The color grade scale ranges from 1 (white) to 8 (light gray).
- Trash Content: It refers to the non-lint material present in cotton bales, such as leaves, stems, and other foreign matter. It is typically measured as a percentage by weight.
- Moisture Content: It refers to the amount of water present in the cotton fibers. Moisture content is typically measured as a percentage by weight.
- Uniformity Index: It is a measure of the consistency of the cotton fibers in terms of length, strength, and micronaire.
- Fiber Fineness: It refers to the diameter of the individual cotton fibers. It is typically measured in microns.
- Seed Coat Neps: It refers to the small knots or bumps that can occur on the surface of cotton fibers due to the presence of seed coat fragments.
- Trash Grade: It is a measure of the amount of foreign matter present in the cotton bales, including leaf, bark, and other debris. The trash grade scale ranges from 1 (cleanest) to 7 (most contaminated).
These parameters are used by cotton buyers and sellers to determine the quality and value of cotton.