Textile Materials

INTRODUCTION TO TEXTILE FIBERS AND YARNS

BELETE BAYE (LECTURER) MASTER OF SCIENCE IN FIBER SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
BA IN MANAGEMENT
 Textile Materials
 Textile materials refer to the various substances used to create
textiles and fabrics.
 Textile materials form the foundation of the fashion industry,
influencing design, functionality, and aesthetics.
 There are different textile types, characteristics, and they impact
the creation of garments and accessories.
 Applications in Fashion
 Casual Wear: Fabrics like cotton, linen, and jersey are popular for
everyday clothing, offering comfort and breathability.
 Formal Wear: Materials such as silk, wool, and high-quality
polyester are often used in suits, dresses, and formal attire for their
elegance and drape.
 Activewear: Fabrics with moisture-wicking properties, such as
polyester and spandex blends, are crucial for performance in athletic
clothing.
 Outerwear: Durable and water-resistant materials like nylon, and
heavy wool are essential for jackets and coats.
 Textile Materials
Term Definition
• A flexible material made from a network of interlaced fibers, produced through methods such as
Textile weaving, knitting, or bonding.
• Textiles are used in various applications, including clothing, upholstery, and industrial products.

• A long, thin strand or filament that can be spun into yarn or used directly to create textiles.
Fiber • Fibers can be natural (from plants or animals) or synthetic (man-made) and influence the properties
of the resulting fabric.

• A continuous strand of fibers twisted together to form a thicker, stronger strand suitable for weaving
Yarn or knitting into fabric.
• Yarn can be made from single or blended fibers and varies in thickness and texture.

• A material made by weaving, knitting, or bonding yarns together, used for making garments,
upholstery, and other items.
Fabric
• The structure, texture, and properties of fabric depend on the fibers and yarns used and the method
of construction.
 1. Introduction to Textile Fibers

❖A textile fiber is a thread-like

Definition of Textile Fibers material with properties that
make it suitable for weaving or
knitting into fabrics.
❖the building blocks of all
textiles, providing the structure,
texture, and functionality needed
for various applications in
fashion, household goods, and
industrial materials.
❖To qualify as a textile fiber, it
generally needs to have
adequate length, strength,
flexibility, and fineness.
 Fundamental Properties of Textile fibers
The terms "textile fiber" and "fiber" can often be used interchangeably, but they have distinct
meanings.
Fiber: is a long, thin strand or filament, which can be natural or synthetic.
•Types: Fibers can include anything from natural fibers like cotton, wool, and silk to synthetic
fibers like polyester and nylon.
•Uses: Beyond textiles, fibers can be used in many applications, including composite materials,
insulation, and medical devices.
Textile Fiber
•A textile fiber is a type of fiber specifically intended for use in the production of fabrics and
textiles.
•Characteristics: specific properties, such as length, strength, and texture, that make them
suitable for spinning into yarns and weaving or knitting into fabrics.
•Focus on Fabric Production: The primary focus of textile fibers is their functionality in
textiles, including aspects like comfort, drape, and durability.
In essence, all textile fibers are fibers, but not all fibers are textile fibers.
Textile fibers are a subset specifically used in the creation of fabrics, while the broader category
of fibers includes a wide range of materials with various applications.
 Overview of Fiber Classification Criteria
 Textile fibers are primarily classified based on:
• Origin: Whether they come from natural sources (plants, animals)
or are artificially made (synthetic or man-made).
• Constituents: The fundamental composition of the fiber, which can
be cellulosic (plant-based), protein-based (animal fibers), or
synthetic polymers created from petrochemicals.
•Natural Fibers
•Derived directly from plants or animals without any chemical synthesis.
•Plant-based fibers (cellulosic): Cotton, Linen, Jute
•Animal-based fibers (protein): Wool, Silk
Plant-based (cellulosic) fibers
• derived from plants, primarily from their cellulose-rich parts.
• natural, renewable, and biodegradable, making them eco-friendly choices in textiles.
 Fiber Source Properties Common Uses Sustainabilty

Biodegradable and
Soft, breathable, absorbent,
Seed fibers of the cotton Everyday clothing, home renewable; water-intensive
Cotton durable, comfortable in
plant textiles, medical supplies cultivation, but organic
warm weather
cotton is more sustainable
Strong, moisture-wicking,
Eco-friendly; requires less
Stem fibers of the flax breathable, naturally Summer wear, home
Linen water and pesticides, and
plant lustrous, softens with textiles, table linens
entire flax plant is utilized
washing, anti-bacterial
Coarse, strong,
biodegradable, Highly sustainable;
Burlap sacks, ropes,
Stem fibers of the jute moderate moisture grows quickly with
Jute twine, rugs, eco-
plant absorption, limited use minimal input, fully
friendly bags
in apparel due to biodegradable
coarseness
Extremely strong, durable,
Very sustainable; minimal water
mold-resistant, UV-protective, Clothing, ropes, canvas, eco-
Hemp Stem fibers of the hemp plant and pesticides, fast-growing,
softens with time without losing friendly alternatives
and improves soil health
strength

High tensile strength, natural Sustainable; can be harvested

Apparel, home furnishings,
Ramie Bark of the ramie plant luster, mildew-resistant; brittle,
industrial textiles
multiple times per year,
often blended with other fibers biodegradable
Soft, breathable, moisture- Bamboo grows quickly with
Bamboo plant (processed into wicking; often processed Activewear, baby clothing, minimal resources, but
Bamboo
viscose) chemically to become towels chemical processing may have
bamboo viscose or rayon environmental impacts
 Animal-based fibers (protein)
Fiber Source Properties Common Uses Sustainabilty
Renewable and
Fleece of sheep Warm, elastic,
biodegradable;
(varieties include moisture-wicking, Sweaters, coats,
varies by type, but
Wool Merino, Cashmere wrinkle-resistant, blankets, suits,
often requires less
from goats, Mohair, retains warmth socks
water than plant
Alpaca, etc.) even when wet
fibers

Smooth, lustrous, Biodegradable and

drapes well, renewable, though
Cocoon of High-end clothing,
hypoallergenic, traditional silk
Silk silkworms (Bombyx scarves, ties,
strong (strongest farming may
mori is common) lingerie
natural fiber by involve harming
weight) silkworms
•Wool
•Derived from the fleece of sheep, wool is known for its warmth, elasticity, and moisture-
wicking abilities. Variants include:
•Merino Wool (from Merino sheep, known for fine texture)
•Cashmere (from Cashmere goats, softer and finer than regular wool)
•Mohair (from Angora goats, known for sheen and durability)
•Alpaca (from alpacas, lightweight and hypoallergenic)
•Silk
•Obtained from the cocoons of silkworms, primarily the Bombyx mori species, silk is valued for
its smooth texture, natural sheen, and strength.
•Angora
•Comes from Angora rabbits, this fiber is extremely soft and fluffy, often blended with other
fibers to add warmth.
•Camel Hair
•Sourced from the soft undercoat of camels, particularly Bactrian camels, this fiber is warm and
lightweight, used mostly in coats and high-end garments.
•Man-Made Fibers
•Created through chemical processes and include two main categories:
•Synthetic Fibers: These are entirely man-made from petrochemicals.
•Examples: Polyester, Nylon, Acrylic, Spandex.
•Regenerated Cellulosic Fibers: These fibers are derived from natural sources but
processed chemically to transform them into fiber form.
•Example: Viscose Rayon.
 Importance of Fiber Selection in Fashion Design
In fashion design, fiber selection plays a crucial role
in determining the look, feel, and performance of a
garment. The fiber’s properties influence the
garment’s comfort, durability, aesthetic, and how it
interacts with the skin. For instance:
• Comfort: Fibers like cotton and silk are
breathable and absorbent, making them ideal
for warm-weather clothing.
• Durability: Fibers such as polyester and nylon are
more resistant to wear and tear, perfect for
activewear.
• Aesthetic and Texture: Natural fibers like wool
and silk provide a distinct texture and finish,
while synthetic fibers allow for more diverse
finishes and blends.

•Care Requirements: The maintenance and cleaning processes for different fabrics, which can affect their
practicality for everyday wear.
•Environmental Impact: Understanding the sustainability of textile materials is vital in modern fashion.
• Natural fibers are often more biodegradable, while synthetic fibers may have a larger environmental footprint.
Important
Properties of Textile
Fibers
 Cotton Fiber

 Cotton is one of the most widely used natural  Mechanical Properties

fibers, derived from the cotton plant. • Tensile Strength: Cotton has moderate tensile strength, making it
 It’s known for its softness, breathability, and strong enough for everyday use but susceptible to breakage under
versatility, making it a popular choice in textiles. heavy load.
• Wet cotton can have a tensile strength up to 20% higher.
 Physical Properties
• Elasticity: Cotton has low elasticity; it does not stretch much and
• Length and Diameter: Cotton fibers vary in can wrinkle easily.
length, typically ranging from 0.5 to 2 inches,
with a diameter of about 16 to 20 micrometers. • Durability: While strong when dry, cotton can lose strength when
wet(soaked).
• Shape: Cotton fibers have a tubular structure,  Thermal Properties
which contributes to their softness and comfort.
• Heat Resistance: Cotton fibers can withstand high temperatures,
• Color: Naturally, cotton is white or cream, but it making them suitable for various laundering processes.
can be dyed in a variety of colors.
• Insulation: Cotton is a poor insulator, meaning it does not retain
heat well, which makes it comfortable in warm weather.
 Cotton Fiber

 Moisture Properties  Environmental Properties

• Absorbency: Cotton is highly absorbent,  Biodegradability: Cotton is biodegradable, decomposing

capable of holding up to 27 times its weight naturally when disposed off.
in water.
 Sustainability: Conventional cotton farming can be resource-
• This property makes it comfortable to wear in intensive (water and pesticides), but organic cotton is a more
humid conditions. sustainable alternative.
• Wicking: While it absorbs moisture, cotton  Applications of Cotton Fiber
does not wick moisture away from the skin
• Clothing: T-shirts, jeans, and undergarments.
effectively compared to some synthetic
fibers. • Home Textiles: Bedding, towels, and curtains.
 Chemical Properties • Industrial Uses: Medical supplies, insulation, and cotton pads.

• Resistance: Cotton is generally resistant to

many chemicals but can be damaged by
strong acids and bleaches.
• Dye Affinity: It readily absorbs dyes, which
allows for vibrant and diverse color options.
 Jute Fiber
 Jute is a long, soft, and shiny vegetable
fiber derived from the jute plant
(Corchorus spp.).
 It is one of the most affordable natural  Mechanical Properties
fibers and is primarily grown in countries
like India and Bangladesh.  Tensile Strength: Jute has moderate tensile strength, making
it strong enough for various applications but not as strong as
 Jute is often referred to as "the golden some other natural fibers like hemp.
fiber" due to its golden color and shine.
 Elasticity: Jute fibers have low elasticity, meaning they do
 Physical Properties not stretch much and can be prone to breaking under tension.
• Length and Diameter: Jute fibers can  Durability: While strong when dry, jute fibers can lose
reach lengths of 3 to 10 feet and have strength when exposed to moisture.
a diameter of about 20 to 30
micrometers.  Thermal Properties
• Shape: The fibers are long and straight, • Heat Resistance: Jute can withstand moderate heat but
is not suitable for high-temperature applications.
with a rough texture.
• Insulation: Jute provides decent insulation and can help
• polygonal shape with round corners regulate temperature
• Color: Jute fibers are typically golden
brown to light brown.
 Jute Fiber
Moisture Properties
•Absorbency: Jute is absorbent, which helps it
retain moisture, making it suitable for certain
applications.
•Wicking: Jute does not wick moisture away
efficiently, similar to cotton.
 Applications Of Jute Fiber
•Chemical Properties
•Resistance: Jute is relatively resistant to many  Bags: Jute is commonly used to make shopping bags,
chemicals, although it can degrade when burlap sacks, and eco-friendly packaging.
exposed to acids or strong bases.
•Dye Affinity: Jute fibers can be dyed but may  Rope and Twine: Strong jute fibers are ideal for
not hold colors as vibrantly as cotton. making ropes and twine.
•Environmental Properties
 Home Textiles: Jute is used in rugs, carpets, and
•Biodegradability: Jute is biodegradable,
making it an eco-friendly choice. curtains due to its durability.
•Sustainability: Jute is a renewable resource,  Geotextiles: Jute is employed in erosion control and
requiring minimal pesticides and fertilizers
compared to synthetic fibers.
soil stabilization in agriculture.
 Linen Fiber
 Linen is a natural fiber made from the stalks of the flax plant
(Linum usitatissimum).  Thermal Properties
 Known for its strength and durability, linen has been used for  Heat Resistance: Linen can withstand high temperatures and is suitable for hot
thousands of years, making it one of the oldest textiles. laundering.
 It is prized for its cool, fresh feel, particularly in warm weather.  Insulation: It provides good insulation, helping to keep the body cool in warm
 Physical Properties weather.
 Length and Diameter: Linen fibers can range from 1 to 36 inches  Moisture Properties
in length, with a diameter of about 15 to 25 micrometers.
 Absorbency: Linen is highly absorbent, able to wick moisture away from the
 Shape: The fibers are smooth and straight, with a natural sheen. skin, making it comfortable to wear in humid conditions.
 cylindrical in shape
 Wicking: Linen has excellent wicking properties, allowing it to dry quickly.
 Color: Linen is typically light brown or off-white but can be dyed
 Chemical Properties
in various colors.
 Mechanical Properties  Resistance: Linen is resistant to most chemicals and does not degrade easily.
However, it can be affected by strong acids.
 Tensile Strength: Linen has high tensile strength, making it one of
the strongest natural fibers, surpassing cotton.  Dye Affinity: Linen takes dye well, resulting in vibrant colors

 Elasticity: Linen has low elasticity and can wrinkle easily, but it
regains its shape well after washing.
 Durability: Linen is very durable and resistant to damage from
abrasion and sunlight.
 Wool Fiber
 Wool fiber is a natural textile derived from the fleece of
sheep and other animals like goats (cashmere and
mohair), alpacas, and rabbits (angora).
 It’s one of the oldest fibers used by humans and has a rich
history in textiles.
 Structure: Wool fibers have a unique scale-like or crimps
structure, with circular to elliptical cross-section that
helps them trap air, providing insulation and warmth.
 This structure also allows wool to absorb moisture
without feeling damp.
 Types: There are various types of wool, each with distinct
properties. For example, merino wool is fine and soft,
making it ideal for next-to-skin garments, while coarse
wools like lambswool are used for outerwear and carpets.
 Thermal Regulation: Wool is known for its ability to
regulate temperature, keeping the wearer warm in cold
weather and cool in warmer conditions.
 Wool is naturally flame-resistant, making it safer for
certain applications compared to synthetic fibers.
 Wool Fiber
 Moisture Management: Wool can absorb moisture and wick it away from the
skin, making it comfortable to wear even during physical activity.
 Durability and Resilience: Wool fibers are strong and elastic, allowing
garments to maintain their shape and resist wear over time.
 Biodegradability: As a natural fiber, wool is biodegradable and has less
environmental impact compared to synthetic fibers.
 Dye Affinity: Wool takes dye exceptionally well, allowing for a wide range of
colors and patterns in fabric.
 Applications in Fashion:
 Wool is versatile and used in various fashion applications, including:
 to create a variety of garments, including expensive suits (coats and
trousers)
 Apparel: From sweaters and suits to activewear, wool’s insulating properties
make it suitable for many clothing items.
 Textiles: used for blankets, upholstery, and high-end fabrics like tweed and
bouclé.
 Accessories: Scarves, hats, and socks benefit from wool’s warmth and moisture-
wicking properties.
Silk Fiber and Fashion Design Aspects
Silk is a luxurious, natural fiber produced by silkworms,
primarily the larvae of the Bombyx mori moth.
Known for its smooth texture and sheen, silk has been
prized for centuries in fashion and textiles.
Luster and Shine:
Silk has a natural sheen that enhances the aesthetic
appeal of garments.
Its reflective qualities can make colors appear more
vibrant.
Softness:
The smooth surface of silk provides a soft, comfortable
feel against the skin, making it ideal for high-end
clothing and intimate apparel.
Strength and Durability:
Despite its delicate appearance, silk is a strong fiber.
It has a tensile strength comparable to that of steel,
making it surprisingly durable when cared for properly.
Lightweight:
Silk is lightweight, allowing for flowing designs and
intricate draping. This quality is especially valuable in
eveningwear and high-fashion garments
Breathability:
Silk is a breathable fabric that allows air circulation, making it suitable for both warm and
cool weather.
Moisture Absorption:
Silk can absorb moisture without feeling damp, which enhances comfort and wearability.
Natural Insulation:
Silk can help regulate body temperature, keeping the wearer warm in winter and cool in
summer.
Hypoallergenic:
Silk is naturally hypoallergenic, making it suitable for sensitive skin.
Dye Affinity:
Silk takes dye beautifully, allowing for a wide range of rich colors and patterns.
Biodegradability:
As a natural fiber, silk is biodegradable, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
silk fiber is essential for fashion students as it opens up a world of design possibilities.
Its unique properties not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal of garments but also influence
the choice of fabric in different fashion applications.
Applications in Fashion
1.Evening Wear: The elegance and drape of silk make it a popular
choice for gowns, dresses, and formal clothing.
2.Underwear: The softness and comfort of silk are ideal for intimate
apparel.
3.Scarves and Accessories: Silk scarves and ties are classic fashion
staples, showcasing intricate patterns and vibrant colors.
4.Home Textiles: Silk is also used in upholstery, drapes, and luxury
bedding.
5.Activewear: Certain silk blends can be used for lightweight
activewear, combining breathability with a luxurious feel.
Care and Maintenance
1.Washing: Silk can be hand-washed in cold water with a gentle
detergent.
Some silk garments are dry-clean only.
1.Ironing: Iron on a low setting while the fabric is slightly damp to avoid
boiling.
2.Storage: Store silk garments in a cool, dry place, away from direct
sunlight to prevent fading.
3.Avoiding Damage: Be cautious with jewelry and rough surfaces to
prevent snagging.
 Polyester Fiber
❖ Polyester is a synthetic fiber made from petrochemical
products, primarily polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
❖ It is one of the most widely used fibers in the fashion
and textile industry due to its versatility, durability,
and cost-effectiveness.
Durability: Polyester is strong and resistant to wear and tear.
It maintains its shape and resists stretching and shrinking,
making it ideal for everyday wear.
Wrinkle Resistance: Polyester fabrics are less prone to wrinkling,
which makes them easier to care for and maintain a polished
appearance.
Moisture Wicking: Polyester has moisture-wicking properties,
allowing it to draw sweat away from the body, making it suitable
for activewear and sports apparel.
Quick Drying: Because it absorbs minimal moisture, polyester
dries quickly, which is beneficial for garments exposed to
moisture or for travel
Color Retention:
•Polyester holds dye well, resulting in vibrant colors
that resist fading, making it a popular choice for
printed fabrics.
Lightweight: Applications in Fashion
Polyester fabrics are generally Activewear: Due to its moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties,
lightweight, allowing for comfortable polyester is widely used in sportswear, leggings, and athletic tops.
layering and versatile designs. Casual Clothing: T-shirts, blouses, and dresses often incorporate
Ease of Care: polyester for its durability and ease of care.
Polyester is machine washable and Outerwear: Polyester is commonly used in jackets and coats, often
resistant to mildew, making it low- blended with insulation materials for warmth.
maintenance compared to natural Home Textiles: Polyester is used in upholstery, curtains, and bedding due
fibers. to its durability and stain resistance.
Thermal Properties: Blended Fabrics: Polyester is often blended with natural fibers like
Polyester can provide good insulation, cotton or wool to enhance durability and ease of care while maintaining a
especially when blended with other soft feel.
fibers, making it suitable for outerwear
Care and Maintenance
and cold-weather garments.
1.Washing: Polyester can be machine washed with warm water and mild
Recyclability:
detergent.
Recycled polyester (rPET) is
• It is generally resistant to shrinking and wrinkling.
increasingly used, allowing for a more
2.Drying: Polyester can be tumble-dried on low heat; however, air drying is
sustainable approach to fashion by
recommended to prolong the life of the fabric.
repurposing plastic waste.
3.Ironing: If needed, polyester can be ironed on a low setting, but often it
Hydrophobic Nature:
will not require ironing due to its wrinkle-resistant properties.
Polyester fibers do not absorb water,
4.Stain Removal: Most stains can be removed with regular laundry
which can be advantageous in certain
detergent, but avoid harsh chemicals that may degrade the fibers over time.
applications but may lead to less
breathability compared to natural fibers.
 Nylon Fiber
Nylon is a synthetic fiber made from polyamide, first introduced in
the 1930s as a replacement for silk. It quickly became popular due
to its strength, elasticity, and versatility, making it a staple in the
fashion and textile industries.
Strength and Durability:
Nylon is known for its exceptional tensile strength, making it one
of the strongest fibers available. It resists wear and tear, making it
suitable for long-lasting garments.
Elasticity:
Nylon fibers have a high degree of elasticity, allowing garments to
stretch and recover their shape, which is ideal for fitted clothing.
Lightweight:
Nylon is lightweight, which enhances comfort in clothing and is
particularly beneficial for activewear and outerwear.
Moisture Wicking:
Nylon has good moisture-wicking properties, drawing sweat away
from the skin, making it suitable for athletic apparel.
Quick Drying:
Because nylon absorbs very little moisture, it dries quickly, which
is advantageous for travel and outdoor activities.
 Resilience:
Nylon Fiber
Applications in Fashion
Nylon is resistant to mildew, mold, and many chemicals, enhancing its 1.Activewear: Due to its moisture-wicking and
durability and ease of care. stretch properties, nylon is widely used in sports bras,
Versatility: leggings, and performance tops.
Nylon can be produced in various textures and weights, making it 2.Lingerie: The lightweight and smooth texture of
suitable for a wide range of applications, from sheer fabrics to heavy- nylon makes it a popular choice for lingerie and
duty materials. intimate apparel.
Dye Affinity: 3.Outerwear: Nylon is often used in jackets, coats,
Nylon takes dye well, allowing for vibrant colors and patterns that and windbreakers due to its durability and water-
hold up over time. resistant qualities.
Thermal Properties: 4.Hosiery: Nylon is the primary fiber used in tights
While nylon itself is not very insulating, it can be blended with other and stockings, offering a smooth fit and excellent
fibers to enhance warmth in outerwear. stretch.
Environmental Considerations: 5.Accessories: Bags, backpacks, and belts often
Nylon production involves significant energy use and can be less eco- incorporate nylon for its strength and lightweight
friendly than natural fibers, but recycled nylon (from waste products) characteristics.
is becoming more common in sustainable fashion.
Care and Maintenance
1.Washing: Nylon can be machine washed in cold water with a mild detergent. It’s best to wash with similar colors to prevent dye
transfer.
2.Drying: Tumble dry on low heat or air dry. Avoid high heat, as it can damage the fibers.
3.Ironing: Nylon can be ironed on a low setting if needed, but it typically doesn’t require ironing due to its wrinkle-resistant
properties.
4.Stain Removal: Most stains can be treated with mild detergent; however, avoid harsh chemicals that may degrade the fabric.
 Acrylic Fiber
➢ Acrylic fiber is a synthetic fiber made from polyacrylonitrile,
known for its versatility and resemblance to wool. First
introduced in the 1950s, acrylic is widely used in the textile
industry for a variety of applications due to its unique
properties.
1. Appearance
•Color: Acrylic fibers can be produced in a wide range of colors.
They hold dye well, resulting in vibrant, long-lasting hues.
•Luster: Acrylic has a slight sheen, giving it a visually appealing
finish that mimics the look of natural fibers like wool.
•Shape: The fiber shape is typically circular, which contributes to
its softness and bulk.
•Surface: The surface of acrylic fibers is smooth, which enhances
comfort against the skin and reduces friction.
•Contour: Acrylic fibers may have a uniform contour, contributing
to their consistent appearance in fabrics.
•Length: Acrylic fibers can vary in length but are typically
available in staple (short) and filament (long) forms for different
applications.
•Diameter: The diameter of acrylic fibers generally ranges from 10
to 20 microns, contributing to their soft feel and lightweight
properties.
 Acrylic Fiber
2. Performance
•Strength/Tenacity: Acrylic fibers are strong and have good tensile strength,
making them durable and resistant to wear. They maintain their strength even when
wet, which is a crucial performance characteristic for garments exposed to
moisture.
3. Maintenance
•Effect of Biological Organisms: Acrylic is resistant to mold, mildew, and moths,
making it less susceptible to damage from biological organisms compared to
natural fibers.
•Chemicals: Acrylic is generally resistant to many chemicals, including diluted
acids and bases. However, strong solvents and some harsh detergents can cause
damage.
•Thermal Conductivity: Acrylic has low thermal conductivity, providing warmth
without excessive bulk. It insulates well, making it suitable for winter garments.
•Environmental Conditions:
• Sunlight: Acrylic fibers can degrade with prolonged exposure to direct
sunlight, leading to fading and loss of strength. UV protection treatments
can help mitigate this.
• Moisture: Acrylic is water-resistant but can absorb some moisture, which
can lead to a reduction in strength if it remains wet for extended periods.
• Temperature: Acrylic fibers can withstand a range of temperatures but
should not be exposed to high heat, as this can cause shrinkage and
deformation.
 Spandex Fiber
Spandex, also known as elastane or Lycra, is a synthetic fiber known for its
exceptional elasticity. First developed in the 1950s, spandex revolutionized the
textile industry by providing stretch and comfort in garments. It is commonly
blended with other fibers to enhance the fit and functionality of various clothing
items.
1. Appearance
•Color: Spandex is usually produced in a neutral color (often white or beige) but
can be dyed in a wide range of vibrant colors, especially when blended with other
fibers.
•Luster: Spandex fibers have a slight sheen, contributing to a glossy finish in
fabrics, particularly in activewear and swimwear.
•Shape: Spandex fibers are typically round in cross-section, which helps them
provide smooth and comfortable fits.
•Surface: The surface of spandex fibers is smooth and slippery, which enhances
comfort against the skin.
•Contour: Spandex fibers maintain a consistent contour, which helps in achieving
an even stretch throughout the fabric.
•Length: Spandex is generally produced in filament form, with lengths suitable for
various textile applications.
•Diameter: The diameter of spandex fibers is quite small, typically around 10 to
40 microns, which contributes to its soft and flexible nature.
 Spandex Fiber
2. Performance
•Strength/Tenacity: Spandex fibers are strong for their weight and have excellent
tensile strength. They can stretch up to five times their original length and recover
quickly, maintaining their shape over time.
3. Maintenance
•Effect of Biological Organisms: Spandex is resistant to mildew and mold,
making it suitable for activewear and swimwear.
•Chemicals: Spandex is sensitive to certain chemicals, particularly those found in
bleach and strong detergents. Care should be taken to avoid harsh cleaning agents
that can degrade the fibers.
•Thermal Conductivity: Spandex has low thermal conductivity, which helps keep
the body comfortable during physical activities. However, it can retain heat if
layered improperly.
•Environmental Conditions:
• Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to UV light can degrade spandex fibers,
leading to loss of elasticity and color fading. Fabrics often include UV
protection to mitigate this.
• Moisture: While spandex is moisture-resistant, it can absorb some water.
Care should be taken to dry garments properly to prevent mildew.
• Temperature: Spandex should not be exposed to high heat during
washing or drying, as this can cause shrinkage or permanent deformation.
 Viscose Rayon Fiber

Viscose rayon is a semi-synthetic fiber made from regenerated cellulose, derived

from wood pulp or cotton linters. Known for its silk-like appearance and feel,
viscose rayon is widely used in the fashion industry for its versatility, comfort, and
draping qualities.
1. Appearance
✓ Color: Viscose rayon can be produced in a wide array of colors and can be
easily dyed, allowing for vibrant and rich hues.
✓ Luster: Viscose has a natural sheen, giving it a luxurious appearance that
resembles silk, making it popular for elegant garments.
✓ Shape: The fiber shape is typically smooth and round, which contributes
to its soft hand feel.
✓ Surface: The surface of viscose is smooth and soft, providing comfort
against the skin and a nice drape in garments.
✓ Contour: Viscose fibers have a consistent contour, contributing to
uniformity in fabrics.
✓ Length: Viscose can be produced in both staple and filament forms,
depending on the desired fabric characteristics.
✓ Diameter: The diameter of viscose fibers usually ranges from 10 to 25
microns, contributing to its softness and lightweight properties.
 Viscose Rayon Fiber
2. Performance
•Strength/Tenacity: Viscose rayon has moderate strength. It is weaker when wet,
which can be a consideration in garment care and usage.
3. Maintenance
• Effect of Biological Organisms: Viscose is susceptible to damage from mold
and mildew if not dried properly. It is important to store it in a dry environment.
• Chemicals: Viscose is sensitive to harsh chemicals and detergents. Use mild
detergents and avoid bleach to preserve the fibers.
• Thermal Conductivity: Viscose has good breathability and moisture
absorption, making it comfortable in warm weather. However, it can retain heat
when layered improperly.
•Environmental Conditions:
• Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can lead to color fading and
degradation of the fibers. It's best to store garments away from direct
sunlight.
• Moisture: Viscose absorbs moisture well, but this can weaken the fibers if
they remain wet for extended periods. Ensure garments are dried
thoroughly after washing.
• Temperature: Viscose can be sensitive to high heat, so washing in cold
water and air drying is recommended to prevent shrinkage and
deformation.
Thank you