Scouring of jute

Although jute is a natural fibre like cotton, it differs in chemical composition. Unlike cotton jute contains a high percentage of non-cellulosic matter (about 40%) and the pre-treatment processes of jute are somewhat different from that of cotton. Scouring of jute with caustic soda under pressure cannot be carried out like cotton because of removal of hemi-cellulose which results in high losses of tensile strength (10-15%) and weight (6-8%). 

Apart from natural impurities, jute yams or fabrics contain mineral oil/jute batching oil (JBO), which is added to facilitate spinning of jute fibre. The JBO has a delustering effect and also contributes additional yellowing on exposure to light. 

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