NATURAL ALTERNATIVES FOR COTTON1. Bamboos- Processors claimed that bamboo fibres is softer than the softest cotton, it is also antibacterial and draws moisture away from skin.

2. Ramie- an old fibre crop producing a stiffer, more brittle textile and requiring chemical processing to remove gums and pectins. Its production in recent years has declined steadily, but export demand increases during cotton shortages.

3. Hemp- increasingly used for textiles including carpet, apparels and building material although processing is still at its early stage. Hemp is stronger than cotton. Fabric made from hemp are naturally resistant to UV light, mold and mildew. Used also for fuels including biodiesel and ethanol.

4. Jutes- are coarser, more inflexible, prone to shed and have decreased strength when wet. More suitable used for rope, packaging, netting, industrial yarn and canvas. There are cheap fibres to produce and have strength and brittleness.

5. Linen- an old fibre from flax plant. One of the earths natural fibres.

REFERRENCESThe Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia 6th ed. Copyright 2012Columbia University Press. All Rights Reserved

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