Page 14 - Shawl Weaving Artisan - TT

• Animal-based (Protein) fibers: Composed of - Filtration: Various filter media.
proteins like keratin or fibroin, these are obtained - Reinforcement: Composites for aerospace,
from animals. sporting goods (e.g., carbon fiber).
• Wool: From sheep (and other animals like alpaca, • Packaging and containment: Sacks, bags, and
cashmere, mohair, angora).
protective covers.
• Silk: From silkworms.
Identification of textile fibers by using different
• Mineral-based fibers: Less common in general methods
textiles due to health concerns, but historically Identifying textile fibers is crucial for understanding a
included asbestos. fabric’s properties, care requirements, and suitability for

2 Manufactured (Man-made) fibers: These fibers are various applications. There are several methods, ranging
created through chemical processes. from simple preliminary observations to more precise
laboratory tests.
• Regenerated fibers (Semi-synthetic): Produced
from naturally occurring polymers (like cellulose) Identification methods
that are chemically processed and reformed into 1 Sensory (Hand/feel) test
fibers.
This is a preliminary, subjective test based on human
• Rayon (Viscose): Made from wood pulp. touch and observation. It’s often the first step but requires
• Acetate: Derived from cellulose. experience.
• Lyocell: Another form of regenerated cellulose • Feel
fiber.
- Softness/hardness: Cotton is soft, linen is
• Synthetic fibers: Produced entirely from synthetic crisp, wool can be scaly, silk is smooth.
polymers, usually derived from petrochemicals. - Smoothness/roughness: Silk and rayon are
• Polyester: Known for durability, wrinkle resistance, smooth, wool can be rough.
and strength.
- Warmth/coolness: Wool feels warm, linen
• Nylon: Strong, elastic, and resistant to abrasion. feels cool.
• Acrylic: Soft, lightweight, and warm, often - Elasticity/resilience: Wool and synthetics
resembling wool. like nylon and spandex are elastic and resist
wrinkling. Cotton and linen wrinkle easily.
• Spandex (Lycra): Highly elastic with excellent
stretch and recovery. • Luster: Natural fibers often have a duller luster,
while synthetics can be glossy.
• Polypropylene: Lightweight, moisture-resistant,
and good insulating properties. • Crush test/wrinkling: Squeeze a piece of fabric
Applications of textile fibers tightly in your hand.
- Wrinkles easily: Cotton, linen, rayon.
The diverse properties of textile fibers lead to their wide
range of applications: - Wrinkles less/resilient: Wool, silk, polyester,
nylon.
• Apparel: The most common application, including all
types of clothing, from everyday wear to specialized 2 Burning test (Fig 2)
sportswear and protective gear.
Fig 2
• Home textiles: Used in bedding, curtains, upholstery,
carpets, towels, and decorative items.

• Industrial and technical textiles: Used in various
non-apparel and non-decorative applications due
to their specific performance characteristics. This
includes:
- Automotive: Seatbelts, airbags, tire cords, interior
fabrics.
- Medical and hygiene: Bandages, surgical gowns,
diapers.
- Construction: Geotextiles for soil stabilization, This is a common and relatively easy method, though it
roofing materials. requires caution and proper ventilation. It distinguishes

- Agriculture and fishing: Nets, ropes, protective between major fiber groups (cellulosic, protein, synthetic)
coverings. based on their reaction to flame, odor, and ash residue.

4 Textile & Handloom: Shawl Weaving Artisan : (NSQF - 2024) R.T. Ex.No 1.1.02&07