Recycled Cotton | Benefits and Challenges of Cotton Recycling

In the sustainability context, recycle cotton is a popular topic with high interest of manufacturers, brands and retailers. For the entire supply chain of textile, recycled cotton can play a vital role to fulfill the goal of sustainability. Cotton is the most popular and comfortable fiber that is used around 56% of total fiber uses across the world. It has reliable quality performance as it is versatile, breathable and very comfortable to wear off.

Conventional cotton harvesting involves use of large scale pesticides,, herbicides and fertilizers that cause to harm the whole environment. In addition, cotton harvesting and processing requires huge amount of water that is left as wastewater cause harm for aquatic lives. 

For sustainable cotton harvesting there are some concept already exists like Organic Cotton( GOTS of OCS Certified cotton), Fairtrade cotton and Better Cotton (BCI). Besides the organic, Fairtrade and BCI cotton the new concept is recycled or regenerated cotton. It is not that much new as it was initiated in the beginning of 21st century and still continues with more and more research. 

Recycled cotton prevents unnecessary wastage and can be a more sustainable alternative to disposal. It can come from secondhand clothing or from textile waste or leftovers which are eventually spun into new yarns and then fabric. It is also commonly referred to as regenerated cotton or reclaimed cotton. Basically the sources of cotton recycling are two types: Pre-consumer cotton and Post-consumer cotton.

 

Pre-consumer cotton: Includes wastage in yarn production, fabric, garments cutting room or so on that are not used for any clothing

Post-consumer Cotton: Includes used garments, upholstery, towels, household items.

In fact, the largest share of the source is pre-consumer waste.

Process of Cotton Recycling: It is all together mechanical recycling method. The wastes are collected and then sorted into colors as they are already dyed. After sorting, the fabrics or other kind of pre consumer wastages are run through  a machine that shreds them into yarn and further into raw fiber. This is a critical process and puts a great deal of strain on the fiber thus it becomes weaken and entangled during shredding.  

The raw fibers is then spun into yarns for reuse in the other products. Since the quality will not be the same as original cotton thus it is spun with other fibers as blend. Most common blend happens with virgin cotton and polyester. The fiber length and uniformity will be impacted which leads to limit of the end use application.

Use of Recycled Cotton:
It is frequently blended with some other fibers to make fabric or other textiles, creating sustainable environmental friendly product. Recycled cotton can be used in industrial settings for polishing. It is popular to be made high quality paper with recycled cotton. The papers used for high command official purposes are mostly made of recycled cotton. It is also used for seat stuffing and automotive insulation in the industry of automobiles. Now Denim fabric mills are using recycle poly as a new concept under sustainable umbrella for the high interest of Brands and Retailers.

Benefits of Cotton Recycling:

• It can be used for insulation, rags of stuffing where it appears with new life cycle.
• Recycling process prevent unwanted wastage that can divert many products from landfills. According to the Council for Textile Recycling, annual textile waste is estimated about 25 billion pounds.
• Since it is already colored so after recycling further coloring is not required
• The amount of energy, water and dyestuff use is reduced since recycled cotton yarns most commonly are sourced from pre-consumer textiles that are sorted by color.
• Reduce the emission of CO2 and other fossil fuel.

Challenges of Cotton Recycling:

• Since Cotton becomes weaken during recycling it must be blended with other fibers to be produced new yarn with required strength and durability and therefore it can not recycled further.
• Any amount of recycled product will impact the yarn and fabric properties such as length, strength, evenness and uniformity.
• Cost is generally higher than the standard cotton processing
• Test results are not that much good.
• In a product not more than 30% recycled cotton can be used.
• Consumer interest to buy recycled cotton product with higher price is less.

After all, Cotton is a fiber that is naturally biodegradable, based on a study of North Carlina State University of USA, more that 75% cotton decomposed in soil within 273 days of dumping. So it is naturally a sustainable fiber all together. 

You May Also Like:

• Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) | Sustainable Cotton Production Standard
• Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) | Certification Steps and Requirements
• Organic Content Standard (OCS) Certification | OCS 100 Standard
• EcoVero™ Fiber The Alternative to Viscose is a Sustainable Innovation 
• Nano Bubble Technology Reduces 95% Water in Denim Washing
• Basic Procedures of Denim Fabric Srinkage and Shade Checking
• Different Types of Enzymes That are Used in Denim Washing
• Different Types of Dry Process for Denim Washing
• Sustainable Denim Washing 

Recycled Cotton | Benefits and Challenges of Cotton Recycling

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In the sustainability context, recycle cotton is a popular topic with high interest of manufacturers, brands and retailers. For the entire supply chain of textile, recycled cotton can play a vital role to fulfill the goal of sustainability. Cotton is the most popular and comfortable fiber that is used around 56% of total fiber uses across the world. It has reliable quality performance as it is versatile, breathable and very comfortable to wear off.

Conventional cotton harvesting involves use of large scale pesticides,, herbicides and fertilizers that cause to harm the whole environment. In addition, cotton harvesting and processing requires huge amount of water that is left as wastewater cause harm for aquatic lives. 

For sustainable cotton harvesting there are some concept already exists like Organic Cotton( GOTS of OCS Certified cotton), Fairtrade cotton and Better Cotton (BCI). Besides the organic, Fairtrade and BCI cotton the new concept is recycled or regenerated cotton. It is not that much new as it was initiated in the beginning of 21st century and still continues with more and more research. 

Recycled cotton prevents unnecessary wastage and can be a more sustainable alternative to disposal. It can come from secondhand clothing or from textile waste or leftovers which are eventually spun into new yarns and then fabric. It is also commonly referred to as regenerated cotton or reclaimed cotton. Basically the sources of cotton recycling are two types: Pre-consumer cotton and Post-consumer cotton.

 

Pre-consumer cotton: Includes wastage in yarn production, fabric, garments cutting room or so on that are not used for any clothing

Post-consumer Cotton: Includes used garments, upholstery, towels, household items.

In fact, the largest share of the source is pre-consumer waste.

Process of Cotton Recycling: It is all together mechanical recycling method. The wastes are collected and then sorted into colors as they are already dyed. After sorting, the fabrics or other kind of pre consumer wastages are run through  a machine that shreds them into yarn and further into raw fiber. This is a critical process and puts a great deal of strain on the fiber thus it becomes weaken and entangled during shredding.  

The raw fibers is then spun into yarns for reuse in the other products. Since the quality will not be the same as original cotton thus it is spun with other fibers as blend. Most common blend happens with virgin cotton and polyester. The fiber length and uniformity will be impacted which leads to limit of the end use application.

Use of Recycled Cotton:
It is frequently blended with some other fibers to make fabric or other textiles, creating sustainable environmental friendly product. Recycled cotton can be used in industrial settings for polishing. It is popular to be made high quality paper with recycled cotton. The papers used for high command official purposes are mostly made of recycled cotton. It is also used for seat stuffing and automotive insulation in the industry of automobiles. Now Denim fabric mills are using recycle poly as a new concept under sustainable umbrella for the high interest of Brands and Retailers.

Benefits of Cotton Recycling:

• It can be used for insulation, rags of stuffing where it appears with new life cycle.
• Recycling process prevent unwanted wastage that can divert many products from landfills. According to the Council for Textile Recycling, annual textile waste is estimated about 25 billion pounds.
• Since it is already colored so after recycling further coloring is not required
• The amount of energy, water and dyestuff use is reduced since recycled cotton yarns most commonly are sourced from pre-consumer textiles that are sorted by color.
• Reduce the emission of CO2 and other fossil fuel.

Challenges of Cotton Recycling:

• Since Cotton becomes weaken during recycling it must be blended with other fibers to be produced new yarn with required strength and durability and therefore it can not recycled further.
• Any amount of recycled product will impact the yarn and fabric properties such as length, strength, evenness and uniformity.
• Cost is generally higher than the standard cotton processing
• Test results are not that much good.
• In a product not more than 30% recycled cotton can be used.
• Consumer interest to buy recycled cotton product with higher price is less.

After all, Cotton is a fiber that is naturally biodegradable, based on a study of North Carlina State University of USA, more that 75% cotton decomposed in soil within 273 days of dumping. So it is naturally a sustainable fiber all together. 

You May Also Like:

• Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) | Sustainable Cotton Production Standard
• Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) | Certification Steps and Requirements
• Organic Content Standard (OCS) Certification | OCS 100 Standard
• EcoVero™ Fiber The Alternative to Viscose is a Sustainable Innovation 
• Nano Bubble Technology Reduces 95% Water in Denim Washing
• Basic Procedures of Denim Fabric Srinkage and Shade Checking
• Different Types of Enzymes That are Used in Denim Washing
• Different Types of Dry Process for Denim Washing
• Sustainable Denim Washing 

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Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) | Sustainable Cotton Production Standard

Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) is a non-profit organizations aims to make global cotton production better for the people who produce it, better for the environment and better for the sectors future. Goal of BCI is aligned to the goals of SDGs as it embraces the SDGs and is inspired to be part of a global community working to make the world a better place. The Better Cotton Standard System covers the main three elements of sustainability : Environmental, social and economic. Each of the elements from the principles and criteria to the monitoring mechanisms which show results and impact - work together to support the better cotton standard system.

BCI standard was initiated in the year 2005 and was recognized by GAP INC, Organic Exchange(Textile Exchange), H&M, ICCO, IFAP, IFC, IKEA, Oxfam, PAN UK and WWF.

BCI is the largest cotton sustainability programme in the globe. It has 1.3 millions licensed farmers in 21 countries to whom BCI and its partners provide training on more sustainable agricultural practices.








BCI supports the farmers to improve the poor environmental management and working conditions to produce cotton.Licensed BCI Farmers produce cotton in a way that care for the environment, minimizing the negative effects of fertilizers and pesticides and caring for water, soil health and natural habitats. BCI farmers also commit to decent work principles - conditions that support workers safety and well being.

BCI Farmers produced 3.3 million metric tonnes of BCI cotton in the 2016-17 which is enough to make 2.5 billion pairs of Jeans. Currently Better cotton accounts for 14% of global cotton production which is included the three BCI recognized equivalent Standards: CmiA(Africa), MyBMP(Australia) and ABR(Brazil).

SO far BCI has 1197 members spanning the cotton supply chain, 85 brands and retailers, 1039 suppliers and manufacturers, 32 producers organizations, 31 civil society member and 12 associate members.

Besides BCI, organic (GOTS & OCS) Fairtrade, myBMP(Australia), ABR(Brazil), Aid by Trade Foundation and some others work towards ensuring sustainable cotton production.

Principles and Criteria:

Betters cotton standard works based on seven important principles what their licensed farmers responsible to do:

• minimize the harmful impact of crop protection practices
• promote water stewardship
• care for the health of the soil
• enhance biodiversity and use land responsibly
• care for and preserve fibre quality
• promote decent work
• operate an effective management system

Assurance Programme:

The Better Cotton Assurance Programme is a key component of the Better Cotton Standard System. It involves farmers participating in a continuous cycle of learning and improvement, and is the central mechanism for assessing whether farmers can grow and sell Better Cotton.

Chain of Custody(CoC):

The Better Cotton Chain of Custody (CoC) is the key framework that connects demand with supply of Better Cotton and helps to incentivize cotton farmers to adopt more sustainable practices.

The CoC refers to the chronological documentation, paper trail and electronic evidence that relates to the movement of Better Cotton products through the supply chain. This ensures the volume of Better Cotton claimed by BCI Retailer and Brand Members does not exceed the volume of Better Cotton produced by licensed BCI Farmers in any given time period, accounting for conversion rates.

Better Cotton Claims Framework:

It provides support to BCI members to make credible and positive claims about Better Cotton. This Claims Framework is is governed by the BCI Code of Practice, BCI Terms of Membership, and BCI Monitoring Protocol.

Outcome and Impact:

BCI standard is stringent to their commitments to measuring sustainability improvements everywhere of the cotton production. It has a aim of achieving 30% cotton will be produced in the way of BCI whereas currently it upholds 14% of the total amount produced. BCI standard works based on result indicator date which measure quantitatively differences between incensed BCI Farmers and non BCI Farmers in the same Geographical area.



Funding:
BCI Organization receives funding from three sources: earned income for services delivered; grants and donations from private and public funders; and volume-based fees and funding from brands. \

You May Also Like:

• Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) | Certification Steps and Requirements 
• Organic Content Standard (OCS) Certification | OCS 100 Standard

Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) | Sustainable Cotton Production Standard

No comments

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Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) is a non-profit organizations aims to make global cotton production better for the people who produce it, better for the environment and better for the sectors future. Goal of BCI is aligned to the goals of SDGs as it embraces the SDGs and is inspired to be part of a global community working to make the world a better place. The Better Cotton Standard System covers the main three elements of sustainability : Environmental, social and economic. Each of the elements from the principles and criteria to the monitoring mechanisms which show results and impact - work together to support the better cotton standard system.

BCI standard was initiated in the year 2005 and was recognized by GAP INC, Organic Exchange(Textile Exchange), H&M, ICCO, IFAP, IFC, IKEA, Oxfam, PAN UK and WWF.

BCI is the largest cotton sustainability programme in the globe. It has 1.3 millions licensed farmers in 21 countries to whom BCI and its partners provide training on more sustainable agricultural practices.








BCI supports the farmers to improve the poor environmental management and working conditions to produce cotton.Licensed BCI Farmers produce cotton in a way that care for the environment, minimizing the negative effects of fertilizers and pesticides and caring for water, soil health and natural habitats. BCI farmers also commit to decent work principles - conditions that support workers safety and well being.

BCI Farmers produced 3.3 million metric tonnes of BCI cotton in the 2016-17 which is enough to make 2.5 billion pairs of Jeans. Currently Better cotton accounts for 14% of global cotton production which is included the three BCI recognized equivalent Standards: CmiA(Africa), MyBMP(Australia) and ABR(Brazil).

SO far BCI has 1197 members spanning the cotton supply chain, 85 brands and retailers, 1039 suppliers and manufacturers, 32 producers organizations, 31 civil society member and 12 associate members.

Besides BCI, organic (GOTS & OCS) Fairtrade, myBMP(Australia), ABR(Brazil), Aid by Trade Foundation and some others work towards ensuring sustainable cotton production.

Principles and Criteria:

Betters cotton standard works based on seven important principles what their licensed farmers responsible to do:

• minimize the harmful impact of crop protection practices
• promote water stewardship
• care for the health of the soil
• enhance biodiversity and use land responsibly
• care for and preserve fibre quality
• promote decent work
• operate an effective management system

Assurance Programme:

The Better Cotton Assurance Programme is a key component of the Better Cotton Standard System. It involves farmers participating in a continuous cycle of learning and improvement, and is the central mechanism for assessing whether farmers can grow and sell Better Cotton.

Chain of Custody(CoC):

The Better Cotton Chain of Custody (CoC) is the key framework that connects demand with supply of Better Cotton and helps to incentivize cotton farmers to adopt more sustainable practices.

The CoC refers to the chronological documentation, paper trail and electronic evidence that relates to the movement of Better Cotton products through the supply chain. This ensures the volume of Better Cotton claimed by BCI Retailer and Brand Members does not exceed the volume of Better Cotton produced by licensed BCI Farmers in any given time period, accounting for conversion rates.

Better Cotton Claims Framework:

It provides support to BCI members to make credible and positive claims about Better Cotton. This Claims Framework is is governed by the BCI Code of Practice, BCI Terms of Membership, and BCI Monitoring Protocol.

Outcome and Impact:

BCI standard is stringent to their commitments to measuring sustainability improvements everywhere of the cotton production. It has a aim of achieving 30% cotton will be produced in the way of BCI whereas currently it upholds 14% of the total amount produced. BCI standard works based on result indicator date which measure quantitatively differences between incensed BCI Farmers and non BCI Farmers in the same Geographical area.



Funding:
BCI Organization receives funding from three sources: earned income for services delivered; grants and donations from private and public funders; and volume-based fees and funding from brands. \

You May Also Like:

• Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) | Certification Steps and Requirements 
• Organic Content Standard (OCS) Certification | OCS 100 Standard

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EcoVero™ Fiber The Alternative to Viscose is a Sustainable Innovation

Textile resources are becoming scarce such as cotton but it has materials that can be resourced and there are also other petroleum based fibers such as acrylic, nylon, polyester or spandex but the production of them are irreversible damage to our environment, therefore many more companies are seeking an alternative to make sustainable fiber and fabrics.

Considering sustainability and rising of consumer awareness regarding environmental impact Lenzing has invented a new fiber EcoVero™ which is a alternative to Viscose fiber. Lenzing, a company with its headquarter in Austria is considering this new innovation as a milestone in Lenzing's sustainability journey by offering Eco-friendly viscose with the lowest environmental impact in the industry that is setting the new standard with wide benchmark in the sustainability of viscose fibers.

Viscose which is widely known as Viscose Rayon are used to make soft, silky and luxurious feeling fabric. The material wood are processed to make pulp that are purified cellulose which are often compared with silk and cotton. Though production of viscose are from natural source but they are chemically modified which is known as semi-synthetic.

Generally the timber are used to make the wooden pulp stems from irrigation-intensive mono cultures, which negatively impact the earth. Consumption of highly toxic chemicals, such as carbon disulfide(CS2) are used during the production of viscose rayon which has led to a number of worker poisonings. Apart this, shipping the cellulose-based semi synthetic fibers around the world also increase the level of carbon di-oxide(CO2) emissions, making it a fiber that is harmful to environment. 

EcoVero™, the innovative and improved sustainable alternative fiber to viscose rayon.

Being produced by Lenzing, EcoVero™ is made using wood that comes from sustainable forestry plantations are certified by industry-leading associations such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC (Program for Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes) in Europe. To produce Viscose, bamboo or eucalyptus are commonly used but in EcoVero™ more than 60 percent of the trees used to produced EcoVero™ fibers come from Austria and Bavaria to ensure lower emissions. 

Launching EcoVero™ fibers by Lenzing that set a new industry standard in sustainable viscose based on three main points-

• The use of sustainable wood sources (FSC® or PEFC® certified),  
• An ecological production process (significantly lower emissions and water impact than conventional viscose), 
• Full supply chain transparency by identifying EcoVero™ fibers in the final product.

This cellulose fiber is produced with a new, innovative environmental process that has significantly lower emissions and water impact than conventional viscose. Almost all the chemicals used during the production of Ecovero are reusable. In comparison with viscose production, the Ecovero causes 50% less emissions and takes up half as much energy and water with its pulp bleaching being 100% chlorine-free.

Well known retailers are teaming up with Lenzing to advance their sustainability strategies with traceable Lenzing™ EcoVero™ fibers. The brands have already taken initiative to introduce EcoVero™ to their collection are listed below-

• Gina Tricot, a Scandinavian retailer.
• Lindex, Retailer of Sweden
• Armedangels, The German brand

EcoVero™ Fiber The Alternative to Viscose is a Sustainable Innovation

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Textile resources are becoming scarce such as cotton but it has materials that can be resourced and there are also other petroleum based fibers such as acrylic, nylon, polyester or spandex but the production of them are irreversible damage to our environment, therefore many more companies are seeking an alternative to make sustainable fiber and fabrics.

Considering sustainability and rising of consumer awareness regarding environmental impact Lenzing has invented a new fiber EcoVero™ which is a alternative to Viscose fiber. Lenzing, a company with its headquarter in Austria is considering this new innovation as a milestone in Lenzing's sustainability journey by offering Eco-friendly viscose with the lowest environmental impact in the industry that is setting the new standard with wide benchmark in the sustainability of viscose fibers.

Viscose which is widely known as Viscose Rayon are used to make soft, silky and luxurious feeling fabric. The material wood are processed to make pulp that are purified cellulose which are often compared with silk and cotton. Though production of viscose are from natural source but they are chemically modified which is known as semi-synthetic.

Generally the timber are used to make the wooden pulp stems from irrigation-intensive mono cultures, which negatively impact the earth. Consumption of highly toxic chemicals, such as carbon disulfide(CS2) are used during the production of viscose rayon which has led to a number of worker poisonings. Apart this, shipping the cellulose-based semi synthetic fibers around the world also increase the level of carbon di-oxide(CO2) emissions, making it a fiber that is harmful to environment. 

EcoVero™, the innovative and improved sustainable alternative fiber to viscose rayon.

Being produced by Lenzing, EcoVero™ is made using wood that comes from sustainable forestry plantations are certified by industry-leading associations such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) or PEFC (Program for Endorsement of Forest Certification Schemes) in Europe. To produce Viscose, bamboo or eucalyptus are commonly used but in EcoVero™ more than 60 percent of the trees used to produced EcoVero™ fibers come from Austria and Bavaria to ensure lower emissions. 

Launching EcoVero™ fibers by Lenzing that set a new industry standard in sustainable viscose based on three main points-

• The use of sustainable wood sources (FSC® or PEFC® certified),  
• An ecological production process (significantly lower emissions and water impact than conventional viscose), 
• Full supply chain transparency by identifying EcoVero™ fibers in the final product.

This cellulose fiber is produced with a new, innovative environmental process that has significantly lower emissions and water impact than conventional viscose. Almost all the chemicals used during the production of Ecovero are reusable. In comparison with viscose production, the Ecovero causes 50% less emissions and takes up half as much energy and water with its pulp bleaching being 100% chlorine-free.

Well known retailers are teaming up with Lenzing to advance their sustainability strategies with traceable Lenzing™ EcoVero™ fibers. The brands have already taken initiative to introduce EcoVero™ to their collection are listed below-

• Gina Tricot, a Scandinavian retailer.
• Lindex, Retailer of Sweden
• Armedangels, The German brand

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Classification of Textile Fiber

Based on source Textile Fibers are classified into two groups.

Vegetable or Cellulosic fibers:

The fibers that are derived from plants are called vegetable fibers. The basic material of all plant life is cellulose. Cellulose is made up of elements like carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. These cellulose fibers have certain common properties like low resilience, high density, and good conductor of heat. They are highly absorbent and are resistant to high temperature. Cotton, flax, jute, ramie, coir and sisal are some of the examples of vegetable fibers.

Animal fibers:

The fibers which are obtained from animals are called animal fibers. Wool and silk are common examples of animal fibers. They are made up of protein molecules. The basic elements in the protein molecules are carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen. Animal fibers have high resiliency but weak when wet because they are bad conductors of heat. Alpaca, Llama, rabbit, horse and kesin are also some of the animal fibers.

Mineral fibers:

They are the inorganic materials shaped into fibers and are mainly used in the fire proof fabrics. Asbestos is the example of mineral fiber. Mineral fibers are fire proof, resistant to acids and are used for industrial purposes. Carbon and graphite are also mineral fibers.

Man made or Synthetic fibers:

These refer to those fibers that are not naturally present in nature and are made artificially by man. Man made fibres have high strength and strong, when wet low moisture absorption characteristics. Examples of man made fibers are nylon, polyester etc.

Regenerated cellulosic fibers are called semi-synthetic as raw materials are of natural source but made in laboratory. Some regenerated fibers are Viscose rayon, acetate rayon and cupramonium rayon.

Classification of Textile Fiber

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Based on source Textile Fibers are classified into two groups.

Vegetable or Cellulosic fibers:

The fibers that are derived from plants are called vegetable fibers. The basic material of all plant life is cellulose. Cellulose is made up of elements like carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. These cellulose fibers have certain common properties like low resilience, high density, and good conductor of heat. They are highly absorbent and are resistant to high temperature. Cotton, flax, jute, ramie, coir and sisal are some of the examples of vegetable fibers.

Animal fibers:

The fibers which are obtained from animals are called animal fibers. Wool and silk are common examples of animal fibers. They are made up of protein molecules. The basic elements in the protein molecules are carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen. Animal fibers have high resiliency but weak when wet because they are bad conductors of heat. Alpaca, Llama, rabbit, horse and kesin are also some of the animal fibers.

Mineral fibers:

They are the inorganic materials shaped into fibers and are mainly used in the fire proof fabrics. Asbestos is the example of mineral fiber. Mineral fibers are fire proof, resistant to acids and are used for industrial purposes. Carbon and graphite are also mineral fibers.

Man made or Synthetic fibers:

These refer to those fibers that are not naturally present in nature and are made artificially by man. Man made fibres have high strength and strong, when wet low moisture absorption characteristics. Examples of man made fibers are nylon, polyester etc.

Regenerated cellulosic fibers are called semi-synthetic as raw materials are of natural source but made in laboratory. Some regenerated fibers are Viscose rayon, acetate rayon and cupramonium rayon.

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General Properties of Textile Fiber | Physical and Thermal Properties of Fiber

Fibers are the primary raw material of textile processing. There are many kinds of textile fibers whose general properties are similar but not exactly same to each other. Some common properties must contain by the fibers to spin into yarn. All the fibers are not textile fibers so the basic properties are very important to be a textile fiber. 

General properties of Textile Fibers are of three categories:

• Physical Properties
• Chemical Properties
• Thermal Properties

Physical Properties:

Length to width ratio:  For the processing of fibers into yarns and then fabrics length must bigger than width. The minimum length to breadth ratio is 100:1.  Length of fibers is also classified into two groups as staple and filament. Staple fibers are of relatively short length fibers; and filament fibers are long length fibers. 

Fiber Fineness: This is the properties of fiber coarseness. Fineness of a natural fiber is a major factor in ascertaining quality and is measured in microns(1 microns= 1/1000millimeter). In general, finer fibers are softer, more pliable and have better drape ability. It is expressed with micronaire value and measured in denier. In case of synthetic fibers, fineness is controlled by the size of holes of the spinneret.

Tenacity (Strength): Strength of textile fibers is referred to as their tenacity. It is determined by measuring the force required to rupture or break the fiber. Sufficient tenacity is required to withstand the mechanical and chemical processing as well as make textile products which are durable. Tenacity is directly related to the length of the polymers, degree of polymerization, strength in dry and wet conditions, and types of inter- polymer forces of attraction formed between the polymers.

Flexibility:  Fibers should be flexible or pliable in order to be made into yarns and thereafter into fabrics that permit freedom of movement. Certain end uses require greater flexibility, e.g., automobile seat belts. 

Uniformity:  Uniformity of fibers towards its length, ensure production of even yarns which can then form fabrics of uniform appearance and consistent performance.  

Cohesiveness or spinning quality: It is the ability of the fiber to stick together properly during yarn manufacturing processes. Natural fibers have inherent irregularities in their longitudinal or cross sections which permit them to adhere to each other during fiber arranging. In case of synthetics, filament lengths aid in yarn formation. Texturing introduces coils, crimps, curls or loops in the structure of an otherwise smooth filament.

Morphology:  It is the study of physical shape and form of a fiber. It includes microscopic structure like longitudinal and cross sections. These also include fiber length, fineness, crimp, color and luster. 

Physical shape: Shape of a fiber include, its longitudinal sections, cross section, surface contour, irregularities and average length.

Luster: It refers to the sheen or gloss that a fiber possesses. It is directly proportional to the amount of light reflected by a fiber. This in turn is affected by their cross section shape. It is seen when light reflected from a surface. It is more subdued than shine. Silk and synthetics have luster than cellulosic fibers. In fact synthetics have high luster which is purposefully removed during spinning.

Crimp: Wool fiber is more or less wavy and has twists. This waviness is termed as crimp. Finer the wool more will be the crimps in it. Marino wool will have 30 crimps per inch while coarse wool has only one or two. This property of havingcrimps gives elasticity to the fiber..

Elongation and Elasticity: The amount of extension or stretch that a fiber accepts is referred to as elongation. Elongation at break is the amount of stretch a fiber can take before it breaks. Elasticity is the ability of stretched material to return immediately to its original size.

Resiliency: It refers to the ability of a fiber to come back to its original position after being creased or folded. Resilient fibers recover quickly from wrinkling or creasing. Good elastic recovery usually indicates good resiliency. This property is described qualitatively and ranges from excellent to poor. Excellent resiliency is exhibited by polyester, wool and nylon fibers. Flax, rayon and cotton, on the other hand, have a low resiliency.

Moisture regain: The ability of a dry fiber to absorb moisture from atmosphere is generally termed as moisture regain. Measurements are done under standard testing conditions (70°± 2F and 65% ±2% relative humidity). 

Chemical Properties:

Water Absorbency: Fibers are of two categories inherently as hydrophobic or hydrophilic. Hydrophobic fibers have no affinity towards water and hydrophilic fibers are of opposite character. Natural fibers are good in terms of absorbency than any kind of synthetics.

Resistance Power to Acid:  Cellulosic fibers are not resistant to Acid solution whereas synthetics have good resistance power.

Resistance Power to Alkali: Cellulosic fibers have fairly resistance power to alkali, especially in mild alkaline medium it does not get harmed but in strong alkaline medium fibers become affected. Synthetics have good resistance power in both mild and strong alkali.

Thermal Properties:

 Flammability: Burning characteristics of fiber groups vary from each other and can, thus be used as an authentic identification method. Reaction to flame can be further broken down into; behavior when approaching flame, when in flame and after being removed from flame.

Electrical conductivity(Static Electricity):  It is the ability of a fiber to transfer or carry electrical charges. Poor or low conductivity results in building up of static charges. This leads to the clinging of clothing and in extreme cases can produce electrical shocks, which produce crackling sound or even a tiny spark. Acrylic is a poor conductor of electricity.  Water is an excellent conductor of electricity and fibers with high moisture regains will never face the problem of static build-up.

Abrasion: The wearing away of a material by rubbing against another surface is called abrasion. 

Other thermal characteristics of fibers are important in their use and care like washing, drying and ironing are selected on the basis of a fiber’s ability to withstand heat.

General Properties of Textile Fiber | Physical and Thermal Properties of Fiber

No comments

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Fibers are the primary raw material of textile processing. There are many kinds of textile fibers whose general properties are similar but not exactly same to each other. Some common properties must contain by the fibers to spin into yarn. All the fibers are not textile fibers so the basic properties are very important to be a textile fiber. 

General properties of Textile Fibers are of three categories:

• Physical Properties
• Chemical Properties
• Thermal Properties

Physical Properties:

Length to width ratio:  For the processing of fibers into yarns and then fabrics length must bigger than width. The minimum length to breadth ratio is 100:1.  Length of fibers is also classified into two groups as staple and filament. Staple fibers are of relatively short length fibers; and filament fibers are long length fibers. 

Fiber Fineness: This is the properties of fiber coarseness. Fineness of a natural fiber is a major factor in ascertaining quality and is measured in microns(1 microns= 1/1000millimeter). In general, finer fibers are softer, more pliable and have better drape ability. It is expressed with micronaire value and measured in denier. In case of synthetic fibers, fineness is controlled by the size of holes of the spinneret.

Tenacity (Strength): Strength of textile fibers is referred to as their tenacity. It is determined by measuring the force required to rupture or break the fiber. Sufficient tenacity is required to withstand the mechanical and chemical processing as well as make textile products which are durable. Tenacity is directly related to the length of the polymers, degree of polymerization, strength in dry and wet conditions, and types of inter- polymer forces of attraction formed between the polymers.

Flexibility:  Fibers should be flexible or pliable in order to be made into yarns and thereafter into fabrics that permit freedom of movement. Certain end uses require greater flexibility, e.g., automobile seat belts. 

Uniformity:  Uniformity of fibers towards its length, ensure production of even yarns which can then form fabrics of uniform appearance and consistent performance.  

Cohesiveness or spinning quality: It is the ability of the fiber to stick together properly during yarn manufacturing processes. Natural fibers have inherent irregularities in their longitudinal or cross sections which permit them to adhere to each other during fiber arranging. In case of synthetics, filament lengths aid in yarn formation. Texturing introduces coils, crimps, curls or loops in the structure of an otherwise smooth filament.

Morphology:  It is the study of physical shape and form of a fiber. It includes microscopic structure like longitudinal and cross sections. These also include fiber length, fineness, crimp, color and luster. 

Physical shape: Shape of a fiber include, its longitudinal sections, cross section, surface contour, irregularities and average length.

Luster: It refers to the sheen or gloss that a fiber possesses. It is directly proportional to the amount of light reflected by a fiber. This in turn is affected by their cross section shape. It is seen when light reflected from a surface. It is more subdued than shine. Silk and synthetics have luster than cellulosic fibers. In fact synthetics have high luster which is purposefully removed during spinning.

Crimp: Wool fiber is more or less wavy and has twists. This waviness is termed as crimp. Finer the wool more will be the crimps in it. Marino wool will have 30 crimps per inch while coarse wool has only one or two. This property of havingcrimps gives elasticity to the fiber..

Elongation and Elasticity: The amount of extension or stretch that a fiber accepts is referred to as elongation. Elongation at break is the amount of stretch a fiber can take before it breaks. Elasticity is the ability of stretched material to return immediately to its original size.

Resiliency: It refers to the ability of a fiber to come back to its original position after being creased or folded. Resilient fibers recover quickly from wrinkling or creasing. Good elastic recovery usually indicates good resiliency. This property is described qualitatively and ranges from excellent to poor. Excellent resiliency is exhibited by polyester, wool and nylon fibers. Flax, rayon and cotton, on the other hand, have a low resiliency.

Moisture regain: The ability of a dry fiber to absorb moisture from atmosphere is generally termed as moisture regain. Measurements are done under standard testing conditions (70°± 2F and 65% ±2% relative humidity). 

Chemical Properties:

Water Absorbency: Fibers are of two categories inherently as hydrophobic or hydrophilic. Hydrophobic fibers have no affinity towards water and hydrophilic fibers are of opposite character. Natural fibers are good in terms of absorbency than any kind of synthetics.

Resistance Power to Acid:  Cellulosic fibers are not resistant to Acid solution whereas synthetics have good resistance power.

Resistance Power to Alkali: Cellulosic fibers have fairly resistance power to alkali, especially in mild alkaline medium it does not get harmed but in strong alkaline medium fibers become affected. Synthetics have good resistance power in both mild and strong alkali.

Thermal Properties:

 Flammability: Burning characteristics of fiber groups vary from each other and can, thus be used as an authentic identification method. Reaction to flame can be further broken down into; behavior when approaching flame, when in flame and after being removed from flame.

Electrical conductivity(Static Electricity):  It is the ability of a fiber to transfer or carry electrical charges. Poor or low conductivity results in building up of static charges. This leads to the clinging of clothing and in extreme cases can produce electrical shocks, which produce crackling sound or even a tiny spark. Acrylic is a poor conductor of electricity.  Water is an excellent conductor of electricity and fibers with high moisture regains will never face the problem of static build-up.

Abrasion: The wearing away of a material by rubbing against another surface is called abrasion. 

Other thermal characteristics of fibers are important in their use and care like washing, drying and ironing are selected on the basis of a fiber’s ability to withstand heat.

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Spandex Fiber | Elastan Fiber | Properties and Uses of Lycra

The fiber Spandex, also known as Lycra and Elastane is a man made fiber carries the property of extended elasticity. It was first invented in 1958 at Dupont chemical company which is a polyether and polyeurea copolymer. To make it 85% polyurethane and 15% natural latex are used. The generic name of this fiber is mainly spandex where different location prefers to use different trade name such as Elastane in Europe and Lycra is in UK and Latin America. Lycra is the trade name of Dupont which is being used mostly among all the names. This fiber has increased the diversity of fabric making with great comfort for men, women and kids product. Blend with multiple fiber is now popular where spandex are mostly used for elasticity. Dimensional stability depends on the percentage of this fiber is used in making of fabric. 

Physical Properties of Spandex Fiber:

Cross sectional area: Though this fiber is produced and extruded through circular orifices it may appear as non circular cross sectional shapes with wide range of forms.. To make multi-filament yarns individual filaments are usually fused together where 12 to 50 filaments can use to make a yarn. The linear density of filaments ranges from 0.1 to 3 tex (g/km).

Density: It depends on the requirement and orifices but it ranges from 1.15 to 1.32 g/cc.

Moisture regain:  This is ranges from 0.8 to 1.2%.

Length: Since it is filament fiber so it can be of any size as required.

Colour: Closely white or transparent.

Luster : Looks a bit dull and less bright.

Strength: It is weaker than any other filament fiber.

Elasticity: It carries excellent elasticity.

Heat: The heat resistance varies considerably amongst the different degrades over 300 degree F.

Flammability: It burns slowly.

Electrical conductivity: It has Low electrical conductivity.

Breaking tenacity: 0.6 to 0.9grams/denier.

Chemical Properties of Spandex Fiber:

Acid: It shows quite good resistance power to most of acids unless long exposure in atmosphere.

Alkalies: Resistance power against alkali is also good.

Organic solvents: It has resistance to dry cleaning solvent.

Bleaches: It is affected by bleaching agent and lost the elastic recovery.

Dyeing: Affinity to dyestuffs is good.

Uses of Spandex Fiber:

• Active wear
• Athletic, aerobic, and exercise apparel
• Belts
• Bra straps and side panels
• Competitive swimwear
• Cycling jerseys and shorts ski pants
• Skinny jeans
• Socks and tights
• Swimsuits/bathing suits
• Underwear
• Wetsuits
• Triathlon suits
• Compression garments such as:
• Foundation garments
• Bra cups
• Support hose
• Gloves
• Hosiery
• Leggings
• Orthopedic braces
  
  

Spandex Fiber | Elastan Fiber | Properties and Uses of Lycra

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The fiber Spandex, also known as Lycra and Elastane is a man made fiber carries the property of extended elasticity. It was first invented in 1958 at Dupont chemical company which is a polyether and polyeurea copolymer. To make it 85% polyurethane and 15% natural latex are used. The generic name of this fiber is mainly spandex where different location prefers to use different trade name such as Elastane in Europe and Lycra is in UK and Latin America. Lycra is the trade name of Dupont which is being used mostly among all the names. This fiber has increased the diversity of fabric making with great comfort for men, women and kids product. Blend with multiple fiber is now popular where spandex are mostly used for elasticity. Dimensional stability depends on the percentage of this fiber is used in making of fabric. 

Physical Properties of Spandex Fiber:

Cross sectional area: Though this fiber is produced and extruded through circular orifices it may appear as non circular cross sectional shapes with wide range of forms.. To make multi-filament yarns individual filaments are usually fused together where 12 to 50 filaments can use to make a yarn. The linear density of filaments ranges from 0.1 to 3 tex (g/km).

Density: It depends on the requirement and orifices but it ranges from 1.15 to 1.32 g/cc.

Moisture regain:  This is ranges from 0.8 to 1.2%.

Length: Since it is filament fiber so it can be of any size as required.

Colour: Closely white or transparent.

Luster : Looks a bit dull and less bright.

Strength: It is weaker than any other filament fiber.

Elasticity: It carries excellent elasticity.

Heat: The heat resistance varies considerably amongst the different degrades over 300 degree F.

Flammability: It burns slowly.

Electrical conductivity: It has Low electrical conductivity.

Breaking tenacity: 0.6 to 0.9grams/denier.

Chemical Properties of Spandex Fiber:

Acid: It shows quite good resistance power to most of acids unless long exposure in atmosphere.

Alkalies: Resistance power against alkali is also good.

Organic solvents: It has resistance to dry cleaning solvent.

Bleaches: It is affected by bleaching agent and lost the elastic recovery.

Dyeing: Affinity to dyestuffs is good.

Uses of Spandex Fiber:

• Active wear
• Athletic, aerobic, and exercise apparel
• Belts
• Bra straps and side panels
• Competitive swimwear
• Cycling jerseys and shorts ski pants
• Skinny jeans
• Socks and tights
• Swimsuits/bathing suits
• Underwear
• Wetsuits
• Triathlon suits
• Compression garments such as:
• Foundation garments
• Bra cups
• Support hose
• Gloves
• Hosiery
• Leggings
• Orthopedic braces
  
  

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Regenerated/Semi-Synthetic Textile Fiber | Man-made Cellulose Fiber

Regenerated fibres are those made from natural fiber polymer, for example wood pulp or cotton linters. These raw materials are reformed to produce fibers or filaments suitable to spin into yarns. The first commercial regenerated synthetic fiber was rayon, also known as ‘artificial silk’, and was made from modified cellulose and wood pulp, later known as viscose rayon

• Natural Textile Fibers
• Manufactured Textile Fibers

Rayon was the first manufactured fiber, made into filaments through wet spinning. These are called regenerated cellulose fiber and the cellulose material used to produce these fibers are -Wood pulp, Cotton linters, Seed Hair, Bast, Leaf, Grasses and Bamboo pulp. Rayon fiber is classified into three types- Viscose rayon, Acetate rayon and Cuprammonium Rayon. These regenerated fibers are produced by dissolving cellulose chemically into solution and passed these concentrated viscous solution through spinneret. 

Viscose Rayon

Viscose was discovered by Cross and Bevan in 1892 during a programme of research on the general properties of cellulose. It is the sodium salt of cellulose Xanthate (Cell-O-C-SNa).It is may be manufactured from cotton linters but the usual starting point is wood pulp. The unrefined wood chips are purified by treatment first with calcium bi-sulphite and then by boiling with steam under pressure for about 14 hours.

Features of Viscose Fiber

• It is a semi-synthetic or regenerated cellulose fiber
• It is the first manufactured fiber.
• It has a serrated round shape with smooth surface.
• When it wets, losses it's strength up to 50%.
• It is also known as artificial silk.

Acetate Rayon

The secondary cellulose acetate rayon cotton linters, waste cotton or high-grade wood pulp is purified by boiling with alkali followed hypochlorite bleaching. After purification the cellulose is dried and mixed with acetic an-hydride and glacial acetic acid together with about 1% of sulphuric acid.

Features of Acetate Fiber

• It has luxurious feel and appearance.
• It has a strength of 1.4 kg per denier which falls to 0.9 when wet.
• First time this material is used as a protective coat for fabric wings of aeroplanes.
• Excellent drape ability and softness
• Shrink, moth and mildew resistant.

Cuprammonium Rayon

Cuprammonium rayon is made from scoured and bleached cotton linters or purified wood pulp with a high alpha cellulose content. The cellulose id washed and then pressed until it contains about 50 percent of water.

Features of Cuprammonium Fiber

• It is not unlike natural silk when examined under the microscope.
• Fibers are finer than other rayon's.
• This products have a particularly pleasing soft -like handle.
• Due to more amorphous region at the structure it undergoes degradation with greater range than natural cellulose

Other Regenerated Fibers that are under processing to get commercial Success

• Algin ALG
• Cupro CUP
• Rubber ED
• Lyocell CLY
• Modal CMD
• Triacetate CTA
• Viscose CV

Regenerated/Semi-Synthetic Textile Fiber | Man-made Cellulose Fiber

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Regenerated fibres are those made from natural fiber polymer, for example wood pulp or cotton linters. These raw materials are reformed to produce fibers or filaments suitable to spin into yarns. The first commercial regenerated synthetic fiber was rayon, also known as ‘artificial silk’, and was made from modified cellulose and wood pulp, later known as viscose rayon

• Natural Textile Fibers
• Manufactured Textile Fibers

Rayon was the first manufactured fiber, made into filaments through wet spinning. These are called regenerated cellulose fiber and the cellulose material used to produce these fibers are -Wood pulp, Cotton linters, Seed Hair, Bast, Leaf, Grasses and Bamboo pulp. Rayon fiber is classified into three types- Viscose rayon, Acetate rayon and Cuprammonium Rayon. These regenerated fibers are produced by dissolving cellulose chemically into solution and passed these concentrated viscous solution through spinneret. 

Viscose Rayon

Viscose was discovered by Cross and Bevan in 1892 during a programme of research on the general properties of cellulose. It is the sodium salt of cellulose Xanthate (Cell-O-C-SNa).It is may be manufactured from cotton linters but the usual starting point is wood pulp. The unrefined wood chips are purified by treatment first with calcium bi-sulphite and then by boiling with steam under pressure for about 14 hours.

Features of Viscose Fiber

• It is a semi-synthetic or regenerated cellulose fiber
• It is the first manufactured fiber.
• It has a serrated round shape with smooth surface.
• When it wets, losses it's strength up to 50%.
• It is also known as artificial silk.

Acetate Rayon

The secondary cellulose acetate rayon cotton linters, waste cotton or high-grade wood pulp is purified by boiling with alkali followed hypochlorite bleaching. After purification the cellulose is dried and mixed with acetic an-hydride and glacial acetic acid together with about 1% of sulphuric acid.

Features of Acetate Fiber

• It has luxurious feel and appearance.
• It has a strength of 1.4 kg per denier which falls to 0.9 when wet.
• First time this material is used as a protective coat for fabric wings of aeroplanes.
• Excellent drape ability and softness
• Shrink, moth and mildew resistant.

Cuprammonium Rayon

Cuprammonium rayon is made from scoured and bleached cotton linters or purified wood pulp with a high alpha cellulose content. The cellulose id washed and then pressed until it contains about 50 percent of water.

Features of Cuprammonium Fiber

• It is not unlike natural silk when examined under the microscope.
• Fibers are finer than other rayon's.
• This products have a particularly pleasing soft -like handle.
• Due to more amorphous region at the structure it undergoes degradation with greater range than natural cellulose

Other Regenerated Fibers that are under processing to get commercial Success

• Algin ALG
• Cupro CUP
• Rubber ED
• Lyocell CLY
• Modal CMD
• Triacetate CTA
• Viscose CV

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Moisture Regain and Moisture Content of Different Fibers

Moisture Regain: It is the ratio between the weight of water with the oven dry weight of the material express in percentage.

Moisture Content: It is the ratio between the weight of water with the total weight of the material express in percentage.

Fiber  -  MR%  -  MC%

Cotton   - 8.5      -  7.34
Jute      -  13.75    -  12.1
Viscose - 11.0    -   9.91
Silk       - 11.0    -   9.91
Wool     - 16.0    -  13.8
Acrylic   - 1.5     -  0
Flax       - 12.4    -  10.4
Hemp    - 12.4   -   10.4
Nylon     - 4.0    -   3.1
Polyester  - 0.4   -  0
Acetate    - 6.0    -  0


Olefin, Polypropylene, Carbon, Graphite, Glass fiber has no Moisture Regain or Moisture Content.

Moisture Regain and Moisture Content of Different Fibers

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Moisture Regain: It is the ratio between the weight of water with the oven dry weight of the material express in percentage.

Moisture Content: It is the ratio between the weight of water with the total weight of the material express in percentage.

Fiber  -  MR%  -  MC%

Cotton   - 8.5      -  7.34
Jute      -  13.75    -  12.1
Viscose - 11.0    -   9.91
Silk       - 11.0    -   9.91
Wool     - 16.0    -  13.8
Acrylic   - 1.5     -  0
Flax       - 12.4    -  10.4
Hemp    - 12.4   -   10.4
Nylon     - 4.0    -   3.1
Polyester  - 0.4   -  0
Acetate    - 6.0    -  0


Olefin, Polypropylene, Carbon, Graphite, Glass fiber has no Moisture Regain or Moisture Content.

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Spandex Fiber | Properties of Lycra | Elastane Fiber

Spandex Fiber

FTC (Federal Trade Commission) Definition-A manufactured fiber in which the fiber forming substance is a long-chain synthetic polymer comprised of at least 85% of a segmented polyurethane. Dupont Company first produced spandex as Lycra in 1959. Lycra is a trade name of spandex fiber was given by "Dupont" The others trade name of spandex is Elastane, Elaspan, Linel, ROICA and ESPA according to the manufacturers. Now Spandex is widely used for producing stretch fabrics such as knit fabrics, denim, twill, canvas, etc.

Available fiber formation

• Spandex Textile Filament Fiber

Raw Materials of Spandex

• Polyurethane
• Natural latex

Properties of Spandex fiber

• Outstanding stretch and recovery.
• Extensibility is maximum 700%
• Stronger, more durable and higher retractive force than rubber
• Lightweight, soft, smooth, supple
• Widely use in garments for comfort and fit.
• Heat-settable — facilitates transforming puckered fabrics into flat fabrics, or flat fabrics into permanent rounded shapes
• Easily Dye-able
• Resistant to deterioration by body oils, perspiration, lotions or detergents
• Abrasion resistant
• Available in fiber diameters ranging from 10 denier to 2500 denier
• Available in clear and opaque lustrous
• Easily sew-able with no needle breakage

End Uses:

• Most of the apparels where requires stretch and fit.

 

Spandex Fiber | Properties of Lycra | Elastane Fiber

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Spandex Fiber

FTC (Federal Trade Commission) Definition-A manufactured fiber in which the fiber forming substance is a long-chain synthetic polymer comprised of at least 85% of a segmented polyurethane. Dupont Company first produced spandex as Lycra in 1959. Lycra is a trade name of spandex fiber was given by "Dupont" The others trade name of spandex is Elastane, Elaspan, Linel, ROICA and ESPA according to the manufacturers. Now Spandex is widely used for producing stretch fabrics such as knit fabrics, denim, twill, canvas, etc.

Available fiber formation

• Spandex Textile Filament Fiber

Raw Materials of Spandex

• Polyurethane
• Natural latex

Properties of Spandex fiber

• Outstanding stretch and recovery.
• Extensibility is maximum 700%
• Stronger, more durable and higher retractive force than rubber
• Lightweight, soft, smooth, supple
• Widely use in garments for comfort and fit.
• Heat-settable — facilitates transforming puckered fabrics into flat fabrics, or flat fabrics into permanent rounded shapes
• Easily Dye-able
• Resistant to deterioration by body oils, perspiration, lotions or detergents
• Abrasion resistant
• Available in fiber diameters ranging from 10 denier to 2500 denier
• Available in clear and opaque lustrous
• Easily sew-able with no needle breakage

End Uses:

• Most of the apparels where requires stretch and fit.

 

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Olefin/Polypropylene fiber | Manufactured fiber Olefin

Olefin or Polypropylene Fiber

FTC (Federal Trade Commission) Definition-A manufactured fiber in which the fiber forming substance is any long-chain synthetic polymer composed of at least 85% by weight of ethylene, propylene, or other olefin units, except amorphous (non-crystalline) polyolefins. Commercially it was first produced by Hercules Incorporated(A chemical manufacturing company).




Raw Materials of Olefin

• Ethylene
• Propylene
• Other olefin units

Available Fiber Formation

• Olefin Staple Fiber
• Olefin Filament Fiber
• Olefin Carpet BCF Filament Fiber
• Olefin Film Fiber
• Polyethylene Fiber

Properties of Olefin Fiber

• Excellent abrasion resistant
• Highly strong
• Outstanding color fastness
• Quick drying
• Low static
• Resistant to deterioration from chemicals, mildew, perspiration, rot and weather
• Thermally bond-able
• Stain and soil resistant
• Sunlight resistant
• Very comfortable
• Very lightweight (This fibers have the lowest specific gravity of all fibers)

End Uses:

• Apparel
• Automotive
• Home Furnishings
• Industrial

Olefin/Polypropylene fiber | Manufactured fiber Olefin

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Olefin or Polypropylene Fiber

FTC (Federal Trade Commission) Definition-A manufactured fiber in which the fiber forming substance is any long-chain synthetic polymer composed of at least 85% by weight of ethylene, propylene, or other olefin units, except amorphous (non-crystalline) polyolefins. Commercially it was first produced by Hercules Incorporated(A chemical manufacturing company).




Raw Materials of Olefin

• Ethylene
• Propylene
• Other olefin units

Available Fiber Formation

• Olefin Staple Fiber
• Olefin Filament Fiber
• Olefin Carpet BCF Filament Fiber
• Olefin Film Fiber
• Polyethylene Fiber

Properties of Olefin Fiber

• Excellent abrasion resistant
• Highly strong
• Outstanding color fastness
• Quick drying
• Low static
• Resistant to deterioration from chemicals, mildew, perspiration, rot and weather
• Thermally bond-able
• Stain and soil resistant
• Sunlight resistant
• Very comfortable
• Very lightweight (This fibers have the lowest specific gravity of all fibers)

End Uses:

• Apparel
• Automotive
• Home Furnishings
• Industrial

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Nylon Fiber | Manufactured Fiber Nylon | Properties and End Uses

Nylon Fiber
FTC(Federal Trade Commission) Definition-A manufactured fiber in which the fiber forming substance is a long-chain synthetic polyamide in which less than 85% of the amide-linkages are attached directly (-CO-NH-) to two aliphatic groups. It was first synthetic true fiber, produced by "Dupont Company" on 28 February, 1935.

Raw Materials of Nylon 6, 6

• Adepic acid [ (CH2)4(COOH)2 ]
• Hexamethylene Diamine [ H2N(CH2)6NH2 ]

Raw Materials of Nylon 6

• Polyamides
• Caprolactum

Properties of Nylon Fiber

• Highest strong fiber.
• Elasticity is high.
• Abrasion resistant
• Lustrous
• Easy to wash
• Resistant to damage from oil and many chemicals
• Can be precolored or dyed in wide range of colors
• Resilient
• Low in moisture absorbency, MR - 4%
• Filament yarns provide smooth, soft, long-lasting fabrics
• Spun yarns lend fabrics light weight and warmth

End Uses:

• Apparel
• Home Furnishings
• Industrial useExtensively use for producing rope

Nylon Fiber | Manufactured Fiber Nylon | Properties and End Uses

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Nylon Fiber
FTC(Federal Trade Commission) Definition-A manufactured fiber in which the fiber forming substance is a long-chain synthetic polyamide in which less than 85% of the amide-linkages are attached directly (-CO-NH-) to two aliphatic groups. It was first synthetic true fiber, produced by "Dupont Company" on 28 February, 1935.

Raw Materials of Nylon 6, 6

• Adepic acid [ (CH2)4(COOH)2 ]
• Hexamethylene Diamine [ H2N(CH2)6NH2 ]

Raw Materials of Nylon 6

• Polyamides
• Caprolactum

Properties of Nylon Fiber

• Highest strong fiber.
• Elasticity is high.
• Abrasion resistant
• Lustrous
• Easy to wash
• Resistant to damage from oil and many chemicals
• Can be precolored or dyed in wide range of colors
• Resilient
• Low in moisture absorbency, MR - 4%
• Filament yarns provide smooth, soft, long-lasting fabrics
• Spun yarns lend fabrics light weight and warmth

End Uses:

• Apparel
• Home Furnishings
• Industrial useExtensively use for producing rope

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Wool Fiber Features and Applications

Characteristics of Wool Fiber:

http://textilerawmaterial.blogspot.com/1. Wool is the natural protein fiber obtained from sheep where cashmere from goats, mohair from goats, angora from rabbits and other wool from camels.
2. It is very fine, soft and highly elastic fiber which contains up to 70 percent unnecessary material other than protein or fiber portion.
3.It is structurally very complex fiber and composed essentially of three tissues, the cuticle, the cortex and the medulla.
4. Usually its length is 1 to 14 inch and comparatively has low strength than other natural textile fibers.
5. Scaling and crimp of wool fiber makes it easier to spin the fleece by helping the individual fibers attach to each other.
6. Due to crimp, wool fabrics have a greater bulk than other other textiles, and retain air which causes the product to retain heat, thus it is suitable for making warm cloth as well.
7. Crimp of wool fiber as like as the fineness of the fiber such as merino(fine wool) have up to 100 crimps and Karakul(coarse wool) may have as few as 1 to 2 crimps.
8. This fibers are hydrophilic it means theyr eadily absorb moisture but are not hollow, standard Moisture Regain of wool is 15 percent.
9. Wool is normally a creamy white fiber, although some breeds of sheep produce natural colors, such as black, brown, silver, and random mixes.
10. Wool fibers are affected by fire at higher temperature than cotton as well as many manufactured fibers.


Quality of Wool Fiber:

Quality of wool fiber depends on fiber diameter, crimp, productivity, color and staple length. For better price fiber fineness is single most important characteristic. According to the grading of wool, merino wool is typically 3-5 inches in length and is super fine as its diameter is between 12 to 24 microns. The most valuable and finest wool comes from Merino Hoiggets. Other sheep wools which are collected from meat producing sheep are typically more coarse and have a short staple length.


Uses:

1. Wool is very fine, soft fiber as it is used about 60 percent in the apparel industry. In addition to apparel manufacturing, it is being used for blanks, rugs, carpets, felt, insulating material and domestic purpose.

2. Wool fiber is typically used to cover apparel diapers.

3. Wool fibers are externally hydrophobic and internally hygroscopic in nature, thus it can be used to cover a wet diaper while inhibiting working as a result outer clothes remain dry.

4. It is used to make underwear because it more readily absorbs the moisture that prevents heat and sweat rashes.

5. The most finest merino wool is used to produce infant wear as well.a

Wool Fiber Features and Applications

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Characteristics of Wool Fiber:

http://textilerawmaterial.blogspot.com/1. Wool is the natural protein fiber obtained from sheep where cashmere from goats, mohair from goats, angora from rabbits and other wool from camels.
2. It is very fine, soft and highly elastic fiber which contains up to 70 percent unnecessary material other than protein or fiber portion.
3.It is structurally very complex fiber and composed essentially of three tissues, the cuticle, the cortex and the medulla.
4. Usually its length is 1 to 14 inch and comparatively has low strength than other natural textile fibers.
5. Scaling and crimp of wool fiber makes it easier to spin the fleece by helping the individual fibers attach to each other.
6. Due to crimp, wool fabrics have a greater bulk than other other textiles, and retain air which causes the product to retain heat, thus it is suitable for making warm cloth as well.
7. Crimp of wool fiber as like as the fineness of the fiber such as merino(fine wool) have up to 100 crimps and Karakul(coarse wool) may have as few as 1 to 2 crimps.
8. This fibers are hydrophilic it means theyr eadily absorb moisture but are not hollow, standard Moisture Regain of wool is 15 percent.
9. Wool is normally a creamy white fiber, although some breeds of sheep produce natural colors, such as black, brown, silver, and random mixes.
10. Wool fibers are affected by fire at higher temperature than cotton as well as many manufactured fibers.


Quality of Wool Fiber:

Quality of wool fiber depends on fiber diameter, crimp, productivity, color and staple length. For better price fiber fineness is single most important characteristic. According to the grading of wool, merino wool is typically 3-5 inches in length and is super fine as its diameter is between 12 to 24 microns. The most valuable and finest wool comes from Merino Hoiggets. Other sheep wools which are collected from meat producing sheep are typically more coarse and have a short staple length.


Uses:

1. Wool is very fine, soft fiber as it is used about 60 percent in the apparel industry. In addition to apparel manufacturing, it is being used for blanks, rugs, carpets, felt, insulating material and domestic purpose.

2. Wool fiber is typically used to cover apparel diapers.

3. Wool fibers are externally hydrophobic and internally hygroscopic in nature, thus it can be used to cover a wet diaper while inhibiting working as a result outer clothes remain dry.

4. It is used to make underwear because it more readily absorbs the moisture that prevents heat and sweat rashes.

5. The most finest merino wool is used to produce infant wear as well.a

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Coir Fiber Properties and Common Application

Coir is a multi-cellular natural bast fiber. It is extracted from the tissues surrounding the seed of the coconut palm. The scientific name of coconut plant is Cocos nucifera. Coir fibers are made from two different types coconut, brown fiber which is obtained from mature coconuts and finer white fiber which is extracted from immature green coconuts after soaking for up to 10 months. Both the raw materials of coconut palm result in fiber types with slightly different characteristics. This coconut plant is truly a source of renewable raw materials for both food and non-food products.

The coconut tree grows in lots of nations of the entire world. But the coir fiber industry is only fully developed in a few countries. Around just 30% of the entirely accessible coconut husks will be highly processed to have coir fiber. Coir fiber production provides work and also revenue to several thousands of countryside, generally poor and rural people in the important producing countries such as India and also Sri Lanka. Coir is also developed far away such as Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam and also South America. Coir fiber production typically takes small place and is a tiny family businesses.

Features of Coir Fiber

1. Coir is a stiff, less flexible and  without softness.

2. Fiber length is up to 35 cm with a diameter of 12-25 microns.

3. This husk fiber contains the maximum amount of lignin among all the other natural fibers.

4. Tensile strength of Coir fiber is low compared to abaca.

5. White coir is made from unripe coconut, brown coir is made from ripe coconut

6. Coir fiber has good resistance to microbial action and salt water damage.

7. This fiber has great affinity to basic dye, acid dye and direct dye.






Application of Coir Fiber

Coir fiber has a great variety of applications at domestic as well as official decorative purpose.

1. It is widely used for floor mats, door mats, brushes, mattresses etc.

2. Common uses for brown coir fiber are in upholstery padding, sacking and horticulture.

3. It is used in handicraft industry and shell of coconut is used for button making as well.

4. This material is also used for electric insulation and packaging.

5. Brown coir fibers together to be used as upholstery padding for automobile industry.

6. This fiber is recommended substitute for sphagnum moss because it is free of bacteria and fungal spores.

7. It is not spoiled into water thus rope can make which is used at ship & boat.

Coir Fiber Properties and Common Application

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Coir is a multi-cellular natural bast fiber. It is extracted from the tissues surrounding the seed of the coconut palm. The scientific name of coconut plant is Cocos nucifera. Coir fibers are made from two different types coconut, brown fiber which is obtained from mature coconuts and finer white fiber which is extracted from immature green coconuts after soaking for up to 10 months. Both the raw materials of coconut palm result in fiber types with slightly different characteristics. This coconut plant is truly a source of renewable raw materials for both food and non-food products.

The coconut tree grows in lots of nations of the entire world. But the coir fiber industry is only fully developed in a few countries. Around just 30% of the entirely accessible coconut husks will be highly processed to have coir fiber. Coir fiber production provides work and also revenue to several thousands of countryside, generally poor and rural people in the important producing countries such as India and also Sri Lanka. Coir is also developed far away such as Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam and also South America. Coir fiber production typically takes small place and is a tiny family businesses.

Features of Coir Fiber

1. Coir is a stiff, less flexible and  without softness.

2. Fiber length is up to 35 cm with a diameter of 12-25 microns.

3. This husk fiber contains the maximum amount of lignin among all the other natural fibers.

4. Tensile strength of Coir fiber is low compared to abaca.

5. White coir is made from unripe coconut, brown coir is made from ripe coconut

6. Coir fiber has good resistance to microbial action and salt water damage.

7. This fiber has great affinity to basic dye, acid dye and direct dye.






Application of Coir Fiber

Coir fiber has a great variety of applications at domestic as well as official decorative purpose.

1. It is widely used for floor mats, door mats, brushes, mattresses etc.

2. Common uses for brown coir fiber are in upholstery padding, sacking and horticulture.

3. It is used in handicraft industry and shell of coconut is used for button making as well.

4. This material is also used for electric insulation and packaging.

5. Brown coir fibers together to be used as upholstery padding for automobile industry.

6. This fiber is recommended substitute for sphagnum moss because it is free of bacteria and fungal spores.

7. It is not spoiled into water thus rope can make which is used at ship & boat.

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Sisal Fiber - A widely Used Vegetable Fiber (Properties and Uses)

Sisal Fibers are just about the most favored healthy fibers obtained by sisal plant. The particular plant, recognized as Agave sisalana. It is a hardy fiber usually extracted from the leaves of the sisal plant as well and naturally grows well at hot and dry climate. Sisal is a member of the agave family, which are hardy plants of arid regions of Central America, Mexico and South West USA. In the past, several species of Agave were used for fibre production, but now A. sisalana is the commercially grown species. Henequen (A. Fourcroydes) is another species of agave that produces fiber, but not of as high quality as A. sisalana.


Every single leaf of the sisal plant includes numerous extended fibers, which may be taken off in the procedure generally known as decortication. The particular fibers could be content spinner into the thread regarding twine in addition to fabric generation, or maybe pulped to produce paper items.

Sisal fibers are usually entirely biodegradable, environmentally friendly composites had been created having soy proteins resin revised having gelatin. Sisal fibers, revised soy proteins resins, in addition to composites had been known with regards to kinetic in addition to energy houses.

Properties of sisal fiber:

1.    Sisal fiber is a lustrous and creamy white fiber.
2.    It measures up to 1 meter in length and with a diameter of 200 to 400 microns.
3.    It is hard and coarse fiber, thus unusual for textile goods in addition to fabrication.
4.    It takes moisture easily and a stronger fiber that others.
5.    Sisal Fiber is extremely long lasting that has a low maintenance with limited usage.
6.    It is Recyclable.
7.    Sisal material is generally obtained from the particular outer leaf skin, eliminating the particular inside pulp.
8.    It is accessible to the weave plaid, herringbone in addition to twill.
9.    Sisal material is generally Anti static, isn't going to attract or lure dust
10.    Sisal Sisal Fiber is extremely long lasting that has a low maintenance with minimal usage.
11.    It is Recyclable.
12.    Sisal material is generally obtained from the particular outer leaf skin color, eliminating the particular inside pulp.
13.    It is accessible to the weave as plaid, herringbone in addition to twill.
14.    Sisal has a fine surface texture thus it is applicable to many common dyestuffs as well.
15.    Sisal exhibits beneficial sound in addition to cushioning properties.
.

Usual Chemical Constituents of Sisal Fiber

Components	Percentage
Cotton	71%
Hemicellulose	18.5%
Lignin	6%
Pectin	2.3%
Fat and Waxes	0.5%
Water Soluble Matter	1.7%

 Total                                                100%



Common Application of Sisal Fiber:


1.    Sisal fiber is a more durable, strengthening, ability to stretch, great attractions towards certain dyestuffs and resistance to deterioration in salt water so it is as used for Agriculture twine as well as a rope (Coil like a roll or braid) .


2.    Sisal is known for the great durability of its yarns, although slight matting of sisal carpeting may occur in high traffic areas.

3.    Sisal does not build up static and does not trap dust, so vacuuming is the only maintenance required.

4.    It is also used in low-cost and specialty paper, dart boards, buffing cloth, filters, Geotextiles, mattresses, carpets, handicrafts, wire rope cores, and Macramé.

5.    Other products developed from sisal fiber include spa products, cat scratching posts, lumbar support belts, rugs, slippers, clothes, and disc buffers.

6.    Sisal wall covering meets the abrasion and tearing resistance standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials and of the National Fire Protection Association.

7.    In recent years sisal has been utilized as a strengthening agent to replace asbestos and glass fiber and is increasingly a component used in the automobile industry, where its strength, "naturalness" and environmentally friendly characteristics are greatly appreciated.

8.    It is also used as a binding material for plaster molding as well as in the construction industry to reinforce plaster in ceilings and walls.

9.    It is used as reinforcement in plastic composite materials, particularly in automotive components, but also in furniture.

10.    Another promising use is as a substitute for asbestos in brake pads. (It is also the best material for making dartboards.)

11.    By-products from sisal extraction can be used for making bio-gas, pharmaceutical ingredients and building material.

(References- wikipedia.org, naturalfibres2009.org, wigglesworthfibres.com)

Sisal Fiber - A widely Used Vegetable Fiber (Properties and Uses)

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Sisal Fibers are just about the most favored healthy fibers obtained by sisal plant. The particular plant, recognized as Agave sisalana. It is a hardy fiber usually extracted from the leaves of the sisal plant as well and naturally grows well at hot and dry climate. Sisal is a member of the agave family, which are hardy plants of arid regions of Central America, Mexico and South West USA. In the past, several species of Agave were used for fibre production, but now A. sisalana is the commercially grown species. Henequen (A. Fourcroydes) is another species of agave that produces fiber, but not of as high quality as A. sisalana.


Every single leaf of the sisal plant includes numerous extended fibers, which may be taken off in the procedure generally known as decortication. The particular fibers could be content spinner into the thread regarding twine in addition to fabric generation, or maybe pulped to produce paper items.

Sisal fibers are usually entirely biodegradable, environmentally friendly composites had been created having soy proteins resin revised having gelatin. Sisal fibers, revised soy proteins resins, in addition to composites had been known with regards to kinetic in addition to energy houses.

Properties of sisal fiber:

1.    Sisal fiber is a lustrous and creamy white fiber.
2.    It measures up to 1 meter in length and with a diameter of 200 to 400 microns.
3.    It is hard and coarse fiber, thus unusual for textile goods in addition to fabrication.
4.    It takes moisture easily and a stronger fiber that others.
5.    Sisal Fiber is extremely long lasting that has a low maintenance with limited usage.
6.    It is Recyclable.
7.    Sisal material is generally obtained from the particular outer leaf skin, eliminating the particular inside pulp.
8.    It is accessible to the weave plaid, herringbone in addition to twill.
9.    Sisal material is generally Anti static, isn't going to attract or lure dust
10.    Sisal Sisal Fiber is extremely long lasting that has a low maintenance with minimal usage.
11.    It is Recyclable.
12.    Sisal material is generally obtained from the particular outer leaf skin color, eliminating the particular inside pulp.
13.    It is accessible to the weave as plaid, herringbone in addition to twill.
14.    Sisal has a fine surface texture thus it is applicable to many common dyestuffs as well.
15.    Sisal exhibits beneficial sound in addition to cushioning properties.
.

Usual Chemical Constituents of Sisal Fiber

Components	Percentage
Cotton	71%
Hemicellulose	18.5%
Lignin	6%
Pectin	2.3%
Fat and Waxes	0.5%
Water Soluble Matter	1.7%

 Total                                                100%



Common Application of Sisal Fiber:


1.    Sisal fiber is a more durable, strengthening, ability to stretch, great attractions towards certain dyestuffs and resistance to deterioration in salt water so it is as used for Agriculture twine as well as a rope (Coil like a roll or braid) .


2.    Sisal is known for the great durability of its yarns, although slight matting of sisal carpeting may occur in high traffic areas.

3.    Sisal does not build up static and does not trap dust, so vacuuming is the only maintenance required.

4.    It is also used in low-cost and specialty paper, dart boards, buffing cloth, filters, Geotextiles, mattresses, carpets, handicrafts, wire rope cores, and Macramé.

5.    Other products developed from sisal fiber include spa products, cat scratching posts, lumbar support belts, rugs, slippers, clothes, and disc buffers.

6.    Sisal wall covering meets the abrasion and tearing resistance standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials and of the National Fire Protection Association.

7.    In recent years sisal has been utilized as a strengthening agent to replace asbestos and glass fiber and is increasingly a component used in the automobile industry, where its strength, "naturalness" and environmentally friendly characteristics are greatly appreciated.

8.    It is also used as a binding material for plaster molding as well as in the construction industry to reinforce plaster in ceilings and walls.

9.    It is used as reinforcement in plastic composite materials, particularly in automotive components, but also in furniture.

10.    Another promising use is as a substitute for asbestos in brake pads. (It is also the best material for making dartboards.)

11.    By-products from sisal extraction can be used for making bio-gas, pharmaceutical ingredients and building material.

(References- wikipedia.org, naturalfibres2009.org, wigglesworthfibres.com)

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