The properties of natural fibers are significantly influenced by their chemical composition. The four main components that determine these properties are:

1. Cellulose

The primary component of plant fibers. Natural cellulose containing impurities is white or light yellow. During the processing of natural fibers, efforts are made to retain as much cellulose as possible to maintain the quality of the fibers.

2. Pectin

Pectin bonds individual fibers into bundles. A higher pectin content results in thicker and coarser fibers. Colloids formed by pectin and hemicellulose often contain natural pigments, which give the fibers a yellow or reddish-brown hue.

3. Hemicellulose

Together with pectin, hemicellulose forms a colloidal matrix that binds single fibers into bundles and fixes lignin onto the fiber surface.

4. Lignin

Lignin provides rigidity and wear resistance to the fibers. The higher the lignin content, the rougher and more coarse the fiber becomes. When exposed to light, lignin can produce yellow pigment molecules.

5. Others

Components such as wax and mineral salts help protect the plant cell structure and support life activities.

Comparison of Classic Natural Fibers

Cotton

Cotton has the highest cellulose content among all natural fibers. The minimal presence of pectin and hemicellulose makes cotton fibers smooth, white, and fluffy. With its low lignin content, cotton fibers are synonymous with softness, as reflected in the common phrase, 'soft like cotton.'

Linen

Linen fibers, with a cellulose content second only to cotton, are widely used in the textile industry. However, the hemicellulose and pectin contained in untreated flax fibers will bind the fibers into bundles and give them a yellow or grayish tint. Residual colloid from untreated flax can affect spinning and dyeing processes.

To overcome this, retting or chemical pretreatment is applied to freshly harvested flax. Treated flax fibers are a highly versatile material, suitable for various products such as carpets, curtains, shirts, and sheets. The small amounts of lignin and hemicellulose in flax provide linen fabrics with a characteristic roughness and crisp texture, offering a natural and earthy appeal.

Jute

Jute fibers are known for their strength and roughness. The high lignin and hemicellulose content in the jute bast tightly bind the fibers, much like reinforced concrete. This property gives untreated jute fibers excellent durability and resistance to rotting, especially in humid conditions.

Retting or alkali boiling can partially remove hemicellulose and pectin; however, completely removing lignin remains challenging. Fabrics containing lignin are stiff and often irritate the skin, which is why jute is primarily used for making ropes and sacks rather than clothing.