Fibre is a thin filament which is either natural or synthetic in nature. It is a long strand of molecules obtained from plant and animal sources. Fabrics are everywhere around us right from the carpet on which you are standing to the sofa or couch on which you are seated. From curtains, clothing to culinary and kitchen appliances, fabric is extensively used across manufacturing industries. It is popular since it offers some great features which distinguishes fabrics from any other material.
Properties Of Fibre
Following are the properties which make fabrics popular:
- Increased tensile strength
- Extremely durable
- Robust
- Abrasion-resistant
- Uniformly distributed fibres
- Tenacity
Also Read: Fibre crops
Types Of Fibres
Fibres are broadly classified into two :
- Natural fibres – These fibres occur freely in nature. Example: Silk, Cotton, Jute
- Synthetic fibres: Fibres that are made by us chemically and are not available in nature are synthetic fibres. Example: Nylon, Rayon, Acrylic
Fibres are converted into yarns which are later woven to obtain fabrics through knitting and weaving primarily. Variety in fabrics are as follows:
| Types Of Fibres | ||
| Name of fibre | Source | Properties/Uses |
| Cotton | Cotton plant – seed pods specifically | Water absorbent
Dries up quickly Wearing qualities Increased flexibility |
| Wool | Sheep, Horses, Camels, Alpaca | Flexible
Insulation Some are Water-resistant |
| Linen | Stem of plants | Heavier
Flexible Wearing characteristics |
| Jute | Plant sources | Rough
Strong Not flexible. Used to make gunny bags and ropes |
| Rayon | Plant sources – Wood pulp | Soft, comfortable
Absorbent Easy to dye Used to make bedsheets |
| Nylon | Coal, air, water | Easy to wash, flexible
Dries quickly, Retains shape Use to make ropes, fishing nets |
| Polyester | Coal, Petroleum, air | Easy to wash, wrinkle-free.
Used to make raincoats, jackets |
Uses Of Fabrics
- Extensively used in cloth making industry since they are water absorbent and retains shape
- Used in home furnishings and large scale industries
- Available in different shades (Rayon can be dyed)
- Used in the making of kitchen appliances
Further Reading: Animal Husbandry – Poultry Farming
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