Using Fiber Elongation to Improve Genetic Screening in Cotton Breeding Programs

In this study, the bundle elongation and tenacity of cotton fibers were measured using a modified tensile testing instrument to which Pressley clamps (1/8” gage length) were adapted. 32 cotton genotypes with a range of bundle tenacity and elongation were carefully selected based on their distinct physical properties. The work of rupture was calculated from the load vs. elongation curves for each type of cotton. Results demonstrated the importance of fiber bundle elongation in the work of rupture of fiber bundles, which is critically important to processing performance. This study lays a foundation for future efforts to calibrate the high volume instrument elongation measurements and to breed new cultivars with improved work of rupture. This should result in lower fiber breakage when the cotton fibers are submitted to different mechanical stresses (ginning, carding, spinning, and weaving).