flax
The bast fiber from the inner bark of the flax
plant (Linun usitatissimum), and the source of
linen for thousands of years. The bast fiber is
about 25 mm long and approximately 0.02 mm thick,
giving it a length to diameter ratio of about
1,250:1. It is thinner than the cotton fiber and
its tube has thicker walls. It is also stiffer and
stronger than cotton, has a rounded section and is
knotted at intervals along its length. Linen rags,
cuttings, thread, etc., have long been used in the
manufacture of paper. See also: BOOK CLOTH ; SEWING THREAD . (17 , 143 )
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