CLASSIFICATIONS OF FIBRES

Fibres can be divided into two main categories, namely

1. Natural fibres.
 Vegetable fibres
 Animal fibres
 Mineral fibres
2. Man-made fibres/Synthetic fibres.
 Regenerated fibres
 Synthetic fibres
1. NATURAL FIBRES

Natural fibres are those fibres that are naturally found in a fibrous form. They can be sub-
divided into the following; -

a) Vegetable Fibers - These are found from plants. Examples are

 cotton , Linen, hemp, jute, etc, which are all used in clothing.
 Sisal, hemp are used in rope making.
 Coir (Coconut fiber) is used in making twine, and is also used in floor mats brushes,
mattress, sacking.
b) Animal Fibers – These are fibers are also referred to as protein fibers and are found
from the animal hair or fur and fluids. Examples include wool, silk, etc.
 Wool refers to the hair of the domestic goat or sheep, which is distinguished from
other types of animal hair, in that the individual strands are coated with scales and
tightly crimped, and the wool as a whole coated with an oil known as lanolin.
 Woolen refers to a bulkier yarn produced from carded fiber, while worsted refers to a
finer yarn which is spun from longer fibers which have been combed.
 Silk is an animal textile fiber made from the fibers of the cocoon of the silkworm.
This is spun into a smooth, shiny fabric prized for its sleek texture.
c) Mineral – These are found in the rocks. Example is asbestos.
Asbestos and basalt fiber are used for stage curtains, and fire blankets.
2. MAN-MADE FIBRES

Are fibers produced from substances that initially were not in a fibrous form. They can also
be sub-divided into the following;-
 a) Regenerated fibers – These fibers are also known as reconstituted fibers.
 They are produced as a result of the reaction of some natural substances such as
cellulose with chemicals. Examples include viscose, acetate, etc.
b) Synthetic fibers – These are obtained from chemicals of petroleum by-products.
 One chemical fiber may be manufactured by a number of companies under different
trade names and although there may be slight difference in the fiber due to
manufacturing technicalities, products will behave in a similar manner.
 Examples include polyesters, nylon, acrylics, spandex, etc.
 Polyester fiber, is used in all types of clothing, either alone or blended with fibers
such as cotton or wool, etc.
 Aramid fiber is used for flame retardant clothing, cut-protection and armour.
 Acrylic is a fiber used to imitate wools, including cashmere, and is often used in
replacement of them.
 Nylon is a fine fiber used to imitate silk. Apart from being used to make clothing, it is
also used in the production of pantyhose. Thicker nylon fibers are used in rope and
outdoor clothing.
 Spandex is also known as Lycra, is a polyurethane fiber that stretches easily and can
be made tight-fitting without impeding movement. It is used to make active-wear,
bras, and swimsuits.

CHARACTERISTICS OF FABRICS

1. NATURAL FIBRES

a) VEGETABLE FIBRES
 COTTON
Cotton, as a natural cellulosic fiber, it has characteristics, such as;

• Comfortable Soft feel

• Machine-washable
• Dry-cleanable
• It is durable
• Drapes well
• Easy to handle and sew
 • If stored while damp, it is easily attacked by mildew
• It is a good conductor of heat
Advantages of Cotton
1. Comfort: Soft and breathable, ideal for all-day wear.
2. Versatile Use: Suitable for a wide range of products, including clothing, bedding, and
towels.
3. Durability: Withstands repeated washing and wear.
4. Moisture Management: Absorbs sweat, helping to keep the body dry.
5. Temperature Regulation: Provides warmth in colder weather while remaining cool
in heat.
6. Sustainability: Can be grown organically, reducing chemical use.
Disadvantages of Cotton
1. Wrinkles Easily: Cotton tends to wrinkle and may require ironing.
2. Shrinkage: It can shrink when washed and dried, especially if not pre-shrunk.
3. Mold and Mildew: Cotton can retain moisture and become a breeding ground for
mold if not dried properly.
4. Environmental Impact: Conventional cotton farming can be resource-intensive,
requiring large amounts of water and pesticides.
5. Color Fading: Colors may fade over time, especially with frequent washing.
6. Pest Susceptibility: Cotton plants are vulnerable to pests, which can impact yield and
quality.
 LINEN

Linen is one of the oldest textiles sorts in the world which is produced from linen fiber.

Characteristics

1. Linen fibers are firm

2. The fibers are lustrous
3. Linen is strong – it is three times stronger than cotton fabrics.
4. Linen fabrics are five times more resistant to rubbing than cotton fabrics.
5. Linen fabrics absorb dampness and sweat better than cotton fabrics.
6. It is a good conductor of heat
7. It is absorbent
8. It is a durable fabric
Advantages of Linen
1. Breathability: Linen is highly breathable, making it ideal for warm weather and hot
climates.
2. Moisture-Wicking: It absorbs moisture well and dries quickly, helping to keep the
skin dry.
3. Durability: Linen is one of the strongest natural fibers and can last for many years
with proper care.
4. Hypoallergenic: Linen is less likely to cause allergic reactions, making it suitable for
sensitive skin.
5. Temperature Regulation: It stays cool in summer and provides warmth in winter.
6. Natural Shine: Linen has a natural luster that gives it an elegant appearance.
7. Eco-Friendly: Made from the flax plant, linen production requires fewer pesticides
and water compared to cotton.
8. Biodegradable: As a natural fiber, linen is biodegradable, making it a sustainable
choice.
Disadvantages of Linen
1. Wrinkles Easily: Linen is prone to wrinkling, which some may find unappealing.
2. Cost: Linen can be more expensive than other fabrics due to the labour-intensive
production process.
3. Limited Stretch: Unlike cotton or synthetic fibers, linen has little to no stretch, which
can affect fit.
4. Care Requirements: It often requires special care, such as hand washing or dry
cleaning, to maintain its appearance.
5. Color Fading: Linen can fade over time, especially when exposed to sunlight.
6. Stiffness: New linen can feel stiff or rough, though it softens with washing and wear.
7. Under damp conditions, it is easily attacked by mildew.
8. It has low resiliency and therefore creases readily unless treated.

 HEMP
Made from the fibers of the Cannabis sativa plant.
Characteristics:
1. Made from the fibers of the Cannabis sativa plant.
2. Strong and durable.
3. Breathable, highly absorbent, and quick-drying
 4. Resistant to mold, mildew, and ultraviolet (UV) light.
5. Becomes softer with washing.
Advantages:
1. Environmentally friendly: requires fewer pesticides and water than cotton.
2. Biodegradable and sustainable.
3. Hypoallergenic and breathable, ideal for sensitive skin.
Disadvantages:
1. Can be more expensive than other fabrics.
2. Limited availability in some markets.
3. Coarser texture compared to cotton, though it softens with use.

 JUTE
Natural fiber from the Corchorus plant.
Characteristics
1. Coarse texture with high tensile strength.
2. Breathable and absorbent.
3. Biodegradable and recyclable.
4. Typically used in packaging materials like sacks and ropes.

Advantages.
1. Environmentally friendly and biodegradable.
2. Affordable and abundant.
3. Strong and durable for industrial use.
Disadvantages:
1. Rough texture, not suitable for clothing without blending.
2. Prone to wrinkling and low elasticity.
3. Weak when exposed to moisture over long periods.

b) ANIMAL FIBRES
 WOOL

Characteristics of wool

Woolen fabric is made from the fleece of sheep.

 1. It is water-repellent, owing to the natural oil in the fiber.
2. The elasticity and resilience of the fibers’ make the finished cloth naturally crease
resistant.
3. Wool is non-inflammable. Therefore it is a safe material for children wear.
4. When wet, the fibers become soft and will easily stretch if not carefully handled.
5. Shrinkage is brought about by extremes of temperature, rubbing when wet and by the
use of alkalis.
6. Wool is attacked by moths and insects unless it has been treated.
7. Wool does not wrinkle easily.

Advantages of wool

1. Warmth: Wool keeps you warm in cold weather.

2. Moisture Absorption: It absorbs sweat without feeling wet, helping to keep you
comfortable.

3. Durability: Wool is strong and lasts a long time.

4. Fire Resistant: It doesn’t catch fire easily, adding a safety feature.

5. Elastic: Wool can stretch and bounce back, keeping clothes in shape.

6. Eco-Friendly: Being a natural fiber, wool breaks down in the environment.

7. Odor Resistant: It doesn’t smell easily, even after wearing it for a while.

8. Gentle on Skin: Most people find it comfortable, though some may be sensitive to it.

Disadvantages of wool

1. Cost: Quality wool can be pricey.

2. Special Care Needed: It often requires hand washing or dry cleaning to avoid
damage.

3. Pilling: Wool can develop little balls of fuzz over time.

4. Allergies: Some people might be allergic to wool and find it itchy.

5. Heaviness: Wool can be heavier than other fabrics.

6. Shrinking: If washed incorrectly, it can shrink a lot.

 7. Humidity Issues: In very humid conditions, it can feel damp and less comfortable.

 SILK
Silk is the fine strong soft lustrous fiber produced by silkworms.

Characteristics of silk

1. It is very lustrous – has a luxurious appearance

2. It is warm
3. It drapes well
4. It is soft to handle and slippery
5. It is very strong
6. It is very elastic
7. It absorbs moisture.
8. It is resistant to mildew

Advantages of silk

1. Soft and Smooth: Silk feels really nice against your skin.
2. Shiny Look: It has a beautiful shine that makes it look elegant.
3. Breathable: Silk helps keep you comfortable in different temperatures.
4. Gentle on Skin: It's less likely to cause allergies or irritation.
5. Moisture Absorption: It can absorb sweat without feeling wet.
6. Strong: Good-quality silk can last a long time if taken care of.
7. Versatile: Great for clothes, bedding, and accessories.

Disadvantages of silk

1. Expensive: Silk can be pricey compared to other fabrics.

2. Care Needed: It often requires special cleaning, like dry cleaning.

3. Wrinkles Easily: Silk can get wrinkled quickly, which may be annoying.

4. Stains Easily: It can stain, so spills need to be cleaned up fast.

5. No Stretch: Silk doesn't stretch much, which can affect how it fits.

6. Sun Damage: Too much sunlight can weaken and fade silk.

7. Humidity Issues: In very hot weather, silk can feel sticky.

 c) MINERAL
 ABSETO

refers to a type of fibre material that is derived from the natural cellulose found in
plants.

Characteristics of abseto

1. Strength: Abseto fibres are known for their high tensile strength, making them
durable and resistant to wear.
2. Lightweight: These fibres are typically lighter than many synthetic alternatives,
which contributes to comfort in textiles.
3. Biodegradability: Being derived from natural cellulose, abseto fibres are
biodegradable, making them environmentally friendly.
4. Moisture Absorption: They have excellent moisture-wicking properties, which help
in regulating temperature and comfort.
5. Versatility: Abseto can be blended with other fibres to enhance the performance and
aesthetics of the final product.

Advantages of abseto
1. Eco-Friendly: As a natural fibre, abseto contributes to sustainability and reduces
environmental impact.
2. Comfort: Its lightweight and breathable nature provides comfort in clothing and
textiles.
3. Durability: The strength of abseto fibres ensures a longer lifespan for products made
from them.
4. Aesthetic Qualities: Abseto can be dyed easily and takes on vibrant colors,
enhancing the visual appeal.
5. Thermal Regulation: Its moisture management properties help keep the body cool
and dry.

Disadvantages of Abseto

1. Cost: Abseto fibres may be more expensive to produce compared to synthetic

alternatives.
 2. Limited Availability: Sourcing natural fibres can be challenging, impacting supply
chains.
3. Care Requirements: Textiles made from abseto may require special care, including
gentle washing and drying.
4. Variable Quality: The quality of natural fibres can vary based on growing conditions
and processing methods.
5. Less Resistance to Wrinkling: Abseto may not have the same wrinkle-resistant
properties as some synthetic fibres, potentially leading to maintenance issues.

Viscose

Physical Characteristics:

1. Softness: Viscose is known for its smooth, soft texture, making it comfortable
against the skin.
2. Drape: It has a beautiful drape, which allows it to flow well in garments and gives a
luxurious appearance.
3. Viscose often has a shiny surface, which can enhance the visual appeal of fabrics.
4. Breathability: The fiber is breathable and absorbs moisture well, making it suitable
for warm climates.

Advantages:

1. Versatility: Viscose can be blended with other fibers (like cotton or polyester) to
enhance certain properties.
2. Comfort: The softness and breathability provide comfort in wear.
3. Cost-Effectiveness: Generally more affordable than silk or other luxury fibers.
4. Sustainability: If sourced responsibly, viscose can be a more sustainable option
compared to synthetic fibers.

Disadvantages:

1. Wrinkling: Viscose tends to wrinkle easily and may require frequent ironing.
2. Durability: It is weaker when wet, which can lead to issues in laundering and care.
3. Shrinking: Fabrics made from viscose can shrink when washed improperly.
4. Environmental Impact: The production process can involve harmful chemicals,
and sourcing practices can raise sustainability concerns if not managed properly.
Acetate

Characteristics:

1. Softness: Acetate is smooth and feels soft to the touch.

2. Drape: It has a lovely flow and drapes well, making it great for clothing.
3. Luster: Often has a shiny finish, giving it an elegant look.
4. Breathability: Allows air to circulate, providing some comfort.
5. Color Retention: Holds dyes well, allowing for vibrant colors.

Advantages:

1. Lightweight: Very lightweight, making it comfortable to wear.

2. Good Resilience: Resists wrinkles and holds its shape fairly well.
3. Easy Care: Generally easy to wash and maintain compared to natural fibers.
4. Versatile: Works well for various applications, from clothing to home textiles.

Disadvantages:

1. Heat Sensitivity: Can melt or deform under high heat, so care must be taken when
ironing.
2. Weak When Wet: Like viscose, it can be weaker when wet and may lose strength.
3. Pilling: Can pill over time with wear, leading to a less polished appearance.
4. Static Electricity: Can generate static cling, especially in dry conditions.

Polyester

Advantages:

1. Durability: Polyester is strong and resistant to stretching and shrinking, making it

long-lasting.
2. Wrinkle Resistance: It resists wrinkling, which means less ironing and maintenance.
3. Moisture Wicking: Polyester can wick moisture away from the body, making it a
good choice for active wear.
 4. Quick Drying: It dries quickly, which is useful for sportswear and outdoor gear.
5. Color Retention: Polyester holds dye well, resulting in vibrant colors that resist
fading.
6. Affordability: Generally, polyester is less expensive than many natural fibers.

Disadvantages:

1. Breathability: Polyester can trap heat and moisture, leading to discomfort in hot
weather.
2. Static Cling: It tends to generate static electricity, which can be annoying.
3. Environmental Concerns: Being a petroleum-based product, it raises sustainability
issues, especially in terms of recycling.
4. Comfort: Some people find polyester less comfortable against the skin compared to
natural fibers.

Characteristics of Polyester Fabrics

1. Durability: Polyester is highly durable and resistant to wear and tear, making it
suitable for everyday use and heavy-duty applications.
2. Wrinkle Resistance: Polyester fabrics resist wrinkling and retain their shape well,
reducing the need for ironing.
3. Moisture Wicking: Polyester has moisture-wicking properties, allowing it to draw
sweat away from the body, which is particularly beneficial for athletic wear.
4. Quick Drying: It dries rapidly after washing or exposure to moisture, making it ideal
for outdoor and active clothing.
5. Color Retention: Polyester holds dyes well, resulting in vibrant colors that resist
fading over time.
6. Lightweight: Many polyester fabrics are lightweight, making them comfortable to
wear and easy to pack for travel.
7. Breathability: While not as breathable as natural fibers like cotton, polyester can still
offer decent airflow in some weaves.
8. Static Cling: Polyester can generate static electricity, which may lead to static cling,
especially in dry conditions.
9. Chemical Resistance: It is generally resistant to many chemicals, making it suitable
for a variety of industrial applications.
 10. Affordability: Polyester is often more affordable than natural fibers, making it a
popular choice for a wide range of products.
11. Versatility: It can be blended with other fibers (like cotton or wool) to enhance
certain properties, such as softness or breathability.
12. Environmental Concerns: As a petroleum-based product, polyester raises
sustainability issues, though recycled polyester options are becoming more common.

Nylon

Advantages:

1. Strength: Nylon is known for its exceptional strength and resilience, making it ideal
for heavy-duty applications.
2. Elasticity: It has good stretch, allowing for flexibility and comfort in active wear.
3. Water-Resistant: Nylon has natural water-resistant properties, making it suitable for
outdoor gear.
4. Lightweight: It’s lightweight and easy to pack, which is great for travel and outdoor
activities.
5. Smooth Texture: Nylon has a soft and smooth feel, which many find comfortable to
wear.

Disadvantages:

1. Moisture Absorption: Unlike polyester, nylon can absorb moisture, which can lead
to a heavier fabric when wet.
2. Heat Sensitivity: Nylon can be sensitive to heat and may melt or deform if exposed
to high temperatures.
3. Static Cling: Like polyester, nylon can also generate static electricity.
4. Environmental Impact: Nylon production is also linked to environmental concerns,
particularly in terms of pollution and non-biodegradability.

Characteristics of Nylon Fabrics

1. Strength: Nylon is exceptionally strong and durable, making it ideal for items that
require resilience, such as outdoor gear and heavy-duty applications.
 2. Elasticity: Nylon has excellent stretch and recovery properties, allowing it to retain
its shape and provide comfort, especially in active wear.
3. Lightweight: Nylon is lightweight, which makes it easy to wear and pack, making it
popular for travel and outdoor activities.
4. Water Resistance: Nylon has natural water-resistant properties, helping to repel
moisture, although it can absorb some water if not treated.
5. Smooth Texture: The fabric has a soft, smooth feel, providing comfort against the
skin, which is why it's often used in intimate apparel and active wear.
6. Abrasion Resistance: Nylon is resistant to abrasion, making it suitable for items that
experience friction, such as backpacks and tents.
7. Quick Drying: Similar to polyester, nylon dries quickly, which is advantageous for
outdoor clothing and swimwear.
8. Breathability: While generally breathable, its moisture absorption can sometimes
reduce comfort in hot and humid conditions.
9. Static Cling: Nylon can generate static electricity, which may lead to clinginess,
particularly in dry environments.
10. Heat Sensitivity: Nylon is sensitive to heat and can melt or deform if exposed to high
temperatures, requiring careful handling.
11. Chemical Resistance: It is resistant to many chemicals, making it suitable for various
industrial and outdoor applications.
12. Versatility: Nylon can be blended with other fibers to enhance specific properties,
such as strength or softness, expanding its use in fashion and functionality.

Acrylic

Advantages

 Strength: Acrylic is significantly stronger than glass, reducing the risk of breakage.
 Safety: In case of breakage, acrylic shatters into smaller, less harmful pieces
compared to glass.
 Clarity: Acrylic offers excellent clarity and transparency, making it ideal for
applications where visibility is important.
 Ease of Maintenance: Acrylic is easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal
effort.
  Cost-Effective: Compared to glass, acrylic is often more cost-effective.

Disadvantages

 Scratch Susceptibility: Acrylic can be scratched more easily than glass, especially
when exposed to abrasive materials.
 Temperature Sensitivity: While acrylic is weatherproof, it can become brittle at
extremely low temperatures.
 Chemical Sensitivity: Some chemicals can cause discoloration or damage to acrylic.
 Limited Heat Resistance: Acrylic is not suitable for high-temperature applications.

Characteristics

 Lightweight: Acrylic is significantly lighter than glass, making it easier to transport

and handle.
 Transparent: It offers excellent light transmission, making it ideal for applications
like windows, aquariums, and display cases.
 Durable: Acrylic is resistant to impact and weathering, ensuring long-lasting
performance.
 Weatherproof: It is unaffected by moisture, UV rays, and extreme temperatures,
making it suitable for outdoor use.
 Versatile: Acrylic can be molded, cut, and shaped into various forms, allowing for a
wide range of applications.

 Color: Acrylic is available in a wide range of colors, from transparent to opaque,

allowing for customization and aesthetic appeal.
 UV Resistance: Acrylic can be formulated to be highly resistant to UV radiation,
preventing yellowing and degradation over time.

 Light Diffusion: Acrylic can be textured or treated to diffuse light, creating a soft and
even illumination.
 Dimensional Stability: Acrylic has excellent dimensional stability, meaning it
maintains its shape and size over time.

 Recyclability: Acrylic is recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly material.

Spandex

Advantages

 Comfort: Spandex provides a comfortable fit, conforming to the body's shape.

 Freedom of Movement: Its elasticity allows for unrestricted movement and a full range of
motion.
 Shape Retention: Spandex helps garments maintain their shape and fit over time.
 Durability: It is resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting performance.
 Versatility: Spandex can be blended with various other fibers to create fabrics with different
properties and characteristics.

Disadvantages

 Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience skin sensitivity or irritation when wearing
garments containing spandex.
 Chlorine Sensitivity: Spandex can be damaged by chlorine, making it less suitable for
prolonged exposure to chlorinated water.
 UV Sensitivity: Prolonged exposure to UV rays can degrade spandex, leading to loss of
elasticity and color fading.

Characteristics

 Elasticity: Spandex can stretch up to 5-8 times its original length and then return to
its original shape.
 Flexibility: It is highly flexible and can be easily molded into various shapes.
 Durability: Spandex is durable and resistant to abrasion, tearing, and pilling.
 Breathability: It is breathable, allowing for moisture to evaporate and keeping the
wearer cool and comfortable.
 Quick-Drying: Spandex dries quickly, making it ideal for active wear and swimwear.
 Softness: Spandex is generally soft and comfortable to the touch.
 Lightweight: It is a lightweight fiber, making it suitable for garments that require a
comfortable and breathable feel.
 Resilience: Spandex has good resilience, meaning it can recover its shape after being
stretched or compressed.
 Resistance to Mildew: Spandex is resistant to mildew and mold, making it suitable
for use in humid environments.
 Resistance to Body Oils: It is resistant to body oils and perspiration, helping to
prevent odor and staining.
 Compatibility with Other Fibers: Spandex is compatible with a wide range of other
fibers, including cotton, polyester, nylon, and rayon.
 Colorfastness: Spandex is generally colorfast, meaning the color does not fade easily.
 Low Maintenance: Spandex garments are typically low maintenance and easy to care
for.
 Variety of Applications: Spandex is used in a wide range of applications, including
sportswear, lingerie, swimwear, and medical garments.