Micronaire is a measure of what aspect of cotton fiber?

Micronaire is a measurement that reflects the fineness and maturity of cotton fibers, specifically their thickness. This value is determined through the air permeability of a specified mass of cotton fibers, which provides insight into how dense or fine the fibers are. A higher micronaire reading indicates a thicker and potentially more immature fiber, while a lower reading suggests finer, more mature fibers. This measurement is crucial for determining the quality of cotton, as it influences spinning performance and fabric characteristics. Understanding micronaire helps producers and manufacturers assess the suitability of cotton for various applications based on fiber thickness.