Textiles

Understanding Textiles

  • Textiles are flexible materials consisting of a network of natural or artificial fibres, often referred to as threads or yarns.
  • Textiles are formed through various methods, such as weaving, knitting, crocheting, tatting, felting, or braiding.
  • The fibres that make up textiles can be obtained from various sources, including sheep’s wool, cotton from cotton plants, silk from silkworms, and synthetic fibres from petrochemicals.
  • The quality and properties of a textile can vary widely depending on its composition and the manufacturing process used.

Types of Textiles

  • Natural Fibres: Derived from animal, plant, or mineral sources, such as cotton, silk, and wool. They tend to be breathable and comfortable against the skin.
  • Synthetic Fibres: Created through chemical processes using substances like petrochemicals. Examples include nylon, polyester, and acrylic. They are durable and resistant to specific conditions.
  • Regenerated Fibres: Made by processing natural materials into a fibre structure. Examples include rayon and lyocell.
  • Blended Fibres: These textiles mix different types of fibres to combine their properties.

Properties of Textiles

  • Textiles can be lightweight or heavy-duty, flexible or rigid, absorbent or water-repellant.
  • They are available in a wide range of colours and patterns, allowing for wide variation in aesthetic appeal.
  • Some textiles are heat-resistant, making them suitable for protective gear and industrial applications.
  • Certain textiles have antimicrobial properties or can be treated to become antimicrobial, making them suitable for medical use.

Applications of Textiles

  • Textiles are widely used in the fashion industry for clothing and accessories.
  • They are essential in home furnishings, including bedding, upholstery, carpets, and curtains.
  • In industry, textiles are used for products such as filters, geotextiles and medical implants.
  • Some specialised textiles are used for industrial, extreme weather, and defensive clothing, as well as the production of tyres and other industrial products.

Environmental Impact of Textiles

  • The production of textiles, particularly synthetic fibres, can have a substantial environmental imprint in terms of energy use and pollution.
  • Many textiles are not biodegradable, and their production uses substantial amounts of water.
  • However, sustainable textiles and eco-friendly manufacturing processes are increasingly being developed and utilised.
  • Life cycle assessment (LCA) can be applied to understand the full environmental impact of a textile product, from fibre production to end-of-life.

Manufacturing Techniques

  • Textile production processes include spinning (production of yarns), weaving or knitting (fabric production), dyeing and finishing (adding colour and improving aesthetics/performance).
  • Some textiles can be produced directly in 3D shapes, reducing the need for cutting and sewing.
  • Processes for combining textiles with other materials include lamination and the incorporation of membranes or coatings to modify properties.