a product and process of manufacturing a non - woven web from cotton regin for use as an industrial hydrophobic absorbent , a filter or insulator . the method of processing the cotton regin creates a low - density and , thus , a high - absorbency web . the finished web has a bulk - to - weight ratio of about 25 to 40 mils / osy . the method includes processing cotton regin to a suitable range of fiber and particle sizes , mixing the cotton regin with a thermoplastic bonding agent , and depositing the material onto a steadily advancing belt to produce a relatively low density , loosely formed web . subsequent processing of the web in an oven softens or melts the bonding agent , thereby adheres it to other web material to give the web its required strength and integrity . one or more continuous , air - permeable layers of scrim or netting may be incorporated on or within the web to provide additional strength or particular surface characteristics .