Cotton seed hull refers to the outer shell or husk of the cotton seed, which is removed during the cotton ginning process. This hull is a byproduct of cotton seed processing and has several uses, mainly in agriculture and industry.

Here are some common uses of cotton seed hulls:

1. Animal Feed: Cotton seed hulls are commonly used as a fiber-rich ingredient in animal feed, particularly for cattle and poultry. They are often included in rations because of their high fiber content, though they are low in protein compared to other parts of the seed.

2. Fuel and Energy: Cotton seed hulls are sometimes used as biomass for generating heat or energy. They are a good source of fuel due to their high cellulose content and are often used in bioenergy applications like pellet fuel.

3. Compost and Soil Amendment: Because they are high in organic matter, cotton seed hulls can be used as a compost material or a soil amendment to improve soil structure and moisture retention. They can also help with aeration in soil.

4. Industrial Uses: Cotton seed hulls can be processed into materials for industrial purposes, such as in the manufacturing of biodegradable products, as fillers in plastics, or even as a base for making composite materials.

5. Absorbent Material: The hulls can be used in absorbent products, such as in oil spill cleanup or as bedding for animals, as they are effective at absorbing moisture.

6. Carbon Source in Activated Carbon Production: In some cases, cotton seed hulls can be used as a precursor material for producing activated carbon, which has various industrial applications, including filtration and purification.

Cotton seed hulls are generally seen as a low-value byproduct, but their versatility in different applications helps reduce waste and adds economic value.