In-depth Study of Textile Fibres

Fibre Classification and Sources

Natural Fibres are sourced from plants (cellulosic) such as cotton and linen, and animals (protein) like wool and silk.
Man-made Fibres either originate from natural polymers (regenerated fibres) such as rayon and acetate, or synthetic polymers (synthetic fibres) including nylon and polyester.

Fibre Structure and Properties

A fibre’s structure directly affects its physical properties. Understanding this relationship is crucial in determining the suitability of fibres for particular applications.
Polymer structure: fibres are made of polymers which are long chain molecules composed of repeating units. The nature of the molecules and how they are arranged impacts the fibre’s properties.
Crystalline and amorphous areas: crystalline regions in a fibre are orderly and tightly packed which contributes to its strength and resistance, while amorphous areas allow flexibility.
Moisture absorption: fibres differ in their absorption capacities. Wool for example, can absorb a lot of moisture making it breathable, while synthetic fibres are often hydrophobic, repelling water.

Advanced Synthetic Fibres

Innovations in fibre development have led to advanced synthetics with superior technical properties.
Aramid fibres like Kevlar are exceptionally strong, heat resistant and used in areas like aerospace and military.
Microfibres are extremely fine (thinner than silk), can have superior softness and drape, and are often used in high quality fabrics.
Conductive fibres incorporate conductive elements enabling transmission of electrical signals, and are used in smart textiles.

Fibre Modification

Fibres can be modified during or after production to enhance their performance.
Solution-dyed fibres have colour pigments added during extrusion (at the liquid stage) giving them excellent colourfastness.
Post-production treatments of fibres can make them flame-resistant, stain-resistant, or even add properties like antimicrobial action.

Fibre Environmental Impact

Every fibre carries an environmental footprint, from the resources needed for production, through to their life cycle end.
Cotton and synthetic fibres, such as polyester, have significant environmental concerns, including pollution, high water usage and non-biodegradability of synthetics.
Sustainable fibres, like organic cotton, bamboo and biodegradable synthetics, are gaining importance due to their reduced environmental impact.
Recycling and waste reduction strategies, such as closed-loop production systems, are evolving to reduce the negative impacts of textile fibre production.

Fibre Testing

Standard tests are used to determine the properties of fibres, which helps to predict their performance in textiles.
Strength tests are critical in determining the durability and longevity of the fibre.
Other tests might measure absorbency, resistance to abrasion, elasticity, pilling performance and reaction to heat.

Remember, understanding the characteristics, properties and environmental impact of textile fibres is a crucial component of Advanced Textile Fibres and Structures, and will aid in the successful design and manufacture of textiles.