Question

Jute fibers deteriorate quickly because
A.Cellulose content is high
B. Lignin content is high
C. Cellulose content is low
D. Both B and C

Answer 1

The main constituent of jute is cellulose and lignin. Both bacteria and fungi can decompose cellulose relying upon the moisture content. The resistance to microbial damage thus depends primarily on lignin. The higher the lignin content, the more prone the fiber will be to rotting i.e. fungal attack, which will then result in quick deterioration.

Complete answer: Option A- Cellulose content is high: The jute fiber has a tensile strength varying from 300 to 700 MPa. There is a substantial increase in the tensile strength documented for the treated jute fiber and the increase is about 45%. Cellulose microfibrils are the major contributors to the tensile strength of natural fibers. High cellulose content means high tensile strength.
Option B- Lignin content is high: Lignin is a complex organic polymer that is plopped within the cellulose of plant cells. The lignin content is high in jute fibers which induce deterioration very quickly.
Option C- Cellulose content is low: Cellulose is the most extensive organic polymer on Earth. The cellulose content in cotton fiber is 90%, that of wood is 40–50%, and that of dried hemp is nearly 57%. Cellulose is primarily used to produce paperboard and paper. Cellulose for industrial use is largely attained from wood pulp and cotton.
Option D- Both B and C: Jute fibers comprise primarily cellulose (5863%), hemicellulose (2024%), and lignin (12~15%). It has been utilized as packaging material, geotextiles, household textiles, and carpet backing.
So, the correct option is B- Lignin content is high

Note: The chemical composition of jute fiber encompasses cellulose (64.4 %), hemicellulose (12 %), pectin (0.2 %), lignin (11.8 %), water soluble (1.1 %), wax (0.5 %) and water (10 %). Jute fiber contains numerous cells.