Spinning trials conducted at CSIRO Materials Science and Engineering (CMSE) has

highlighted the superior fibre properties of a new Long Staple (LS) Upland variety

called Sicala 350 B, produced by breeders at CSIRO Plant Industry. Initial trials

conducted in 2004 showed that Sicala 350 B fibre produces superior Ne 42 (14 tex)

and Ne 35 (17 tex) ring-spun carded and combed yarn, and subsequently fabric

(single jersey) knitted from it. Performance was measured in terms of process

efficiency and quality relative to yarn and fabric produced from standard Upland

cotton. Subsequent spin limit trials conducted in 2005 showed that Sicala 350 B could

be used to process high quality fine count carded and combed ring-spun yarns in the

range of Ne 60 to 70 (8 to 10 tex). The Premium Blends project in 2007 further

highlighted the fact that a 70/30 blend of Pima/Sicala 350 B did not cause a practical

deterioration in yarn quality and processing efficiency when compared with yarn

spun from 100% Pima. The primary advantage for the spinner using Sicala 350 B

fibre is a substantial savings in raw material costs.