I don't feel or smell anything other than the coco fiber. It looks like they weave and press it together. There are no pesticides listed on the label. It says it is 100% natural Coco. You might check with the company just to make sure. It is a company that has been making planting stuff for a very long time "Vigoro" and I have used their products since the 1950's. You may also want to try the Garden Club at: www.homedepotgardenclub.com as they may have more info.
I would say it could be cut. It is the stuff we learned in kindergarten. Put the liner in the pot and trim it with a pair of scissors to fit. You may have a few coco "threads" left, but, it should trim. It also bends pretty easily and you may be able to just push it into the pot and fold it to fit. Experiment!
6"