Density and X-Ray Diffraction Studies of Jute at Different Stages of Growth

Abstract

Fine structure of jute fiber at different stages of growth is discussed on the basis of density and x-ray diffraction data. In the very early stage, density is much higher than in the mature stage. X-ray photographs suggest a more ordered but less oriented arrangement of the chain molecules. It is suggested that lignin remains more or less as a separate phase in the early stage, allowing better ordering and closer packing of the cellulose chains. With growth, lignin infiltrates into the cell wall and forms stronger bonds with the cellulose chains, pushing the chains farther apart, resulting in a more disordered structure and a less compact packing of the chains. Since, with growth, the structure becomes more open, the density falls.

A corroboration of the above picture is provided by the much higher degree of mercerization of the fiber in the very early stage as compared with what is obtained with mature fiber.