Location: Cotton Fiber Bioscience and Utilization Research
Project Number: 6054-30600-007-000-D
Project Type: In-House Appropriated
Start Date: May 13, 2025
End Date: May 12, 2030
Objective:
Objective 1: Identification of novel natural fiber traits including enhanced flame resistance and antimicrobial properties for value-added products.
Objective 2: Nanoengineering of natural fibers and byproducts for advanced and expanded applications.
Objective 3: Development of new chemical and mechanical processes and technologies to produce cotton-containing natural fiber blends with added strength for woven and nonwoven textile applications.
Approach:
This research project aims to enhance the application of cotton and other natural fibers in technical textiles by leveraging genetic selection, modifications with nanomaterials, and strategic fiber blending. As the demand for sustainable and high-performance materials in various industries grows, this project seeks to position cotton and natural fibers as viable alternatives to synthetic options. The first component of the project involves genetic selection to identify and enhance specific traits in cotton and natural fibers that improve their mechanical properties, durability, and resistance to environmental factors. By utilizing advanced breeding techniques and genomic tools, the project aims to develop fiber varieties that exhibit superior performance characteristics suitable for technical applications. The second focus is on modifying natural fibers with nanomaterials. This process aims to impart unique functionalities, such as antimicrobial properties, UV protection, durability and enhanced electrical conductivity. By integrating these nanomaterials into the fiber matrix, the project seeks to create textiles that meet the rigorous demands of high-tech applications while maintaining the eco-friendly nature of the materials. The final aspect involves fiber blending, where cotton and natural fibers are combined to optimize performance. This blending strategy aims to harness the benefits of each fiber type, resulting in textiles that offer improved strength, flexibility, and moisture management that can replace synthetic fiber based options. The project will explore various blending techniques and ratios to identify the most effective combinations for specific applications. Through a multidisciplinary approach combining genetics, nanotechnology, and textile engineering, this research project aspires to redefine the role of cotton and natural fibers in the technical textiles sector. Ultimately, it aims to promote sustainable practices while meeting the evolving needs of industries such as automotive, healthcare, and protective clothing.