Synthetic Natural Fibres

Introduction

Fibres are referred to as the thread like structure that is long and thin and also very flexible in nature. The fibre is then spun in the yarns and from there, fabrics are made. The two main classifications that are found depending on the origin of the fibres, that involve, natural fibres and man-made fibres or (MMF) or synthetic fibres. However, the MMF is made in the laboratories and seemed to be quite cheaper as compared to the natural fibres.

Classification of Fibres

Based on the aspect of origin, the fibre can be divided into, natural fibres as well as man- made fibres or (MMF) or synthetic fibres. However, these are further subdivided depending on their qualities.

Figure 1 − Classification of Fibres

From the above-given chart, it can be concluded that the natural fibres are divided based on their source of derivation into natural vegetables, natural animal as well as fibres from natural minerals. On the other, MMF are derived from regenerated MMF, synthetic MMF and lastly, other MMF that is derived from metal, carbon as well as glass respectively.

What are Natural Fibres with examples?

Natural Fibres refers to as the raw materials that have a hair-like structure and these fibres can be derived from three major sources. This includes sources such as, from minerals, from vegetables followed by animals. These fibres are cells of agglomeration, where the diameters are considerably less than that of their length.

Figure 2 − Natural Fibres – Cotton

These fibres are easy in conducting a conversation with fabrics that are non-woven or converted to woven clothes. Besides, in the textile industries, it is noticed that these kinds of fibres are massively used in several industries based on the purposes of usage. Some examples are plant fibres and animal fibres.

Advantages of Natural Fibres

Multiple numbers of advantages are noticed for the usage of natural fibres because of their unique characteristics. The advantages are as follows.

• Natural Fibres are quite good absorbents of sweat.

• These fibres are available in a variety of textures.

• In hot and humid climate this fibre is very comfortable to wear.

• These are easy to wear and are flexible and have relatively high strength.

• Natural Fibres have high elasticity.

Kinds of Natural Fibres

Two major kinds of Natural Fibres are present, that are used in most cases. This involves, plant fibres followed by animal fibres. The plant fibres constitute the involvement of continuous as well as thin strands that are called fibres. For example, this includes, hemp, jute, cotton and flax. On the other, animal fibres are mostly, proteins catering to, fibroin, collagen and keratin. However, animal fibres are sourced from hair and silk fibres from insects.

Factors influencing Natural Fibres

Varied factors are there that result in influencing natural fibres, that are stated below.

• The age of the fibre

• Sensitivity for a rating of strains

• Fibre is based on the content of moisture

What are Synthetic Fibres with examples?

From the records, it is stated that more than half of the total usage of fibres is accounted for from Synthetic Fibres. Polymerization is the process for making this fibre. These fibres are derived from mostly, petrochemicals and this is conducted to make a chemical bonding among the atoms of carbons atoms that lies in the adjacent.

Several types of MMF are made, depending on their origin and purposes. The most application of these fibres is conducted in the technology that is associated with fibre and textiles.

Figure 3 − Production of yarn of polyester

A total of 60% of needs for fibres are mitigated by the man-made fibres or MMF. The major types of MMF include, nylon, acrylic, polyester and polyolefin and are used massively for commercial purposes.

Types and features of Synthetic Fibres

Four major types of Synthetic Fibres are noticed that includes, nylon, acrylic, polyester and polyolefin. These fibres are characterised by their durability, and long-lasting nature. These are considered cheap and easy in washing.

Semi-synthetic Fibres

Semi-synthetic Fibres are said to be naturally occurring fibres. However, these are then subjected to varied chemical procedures. The processes involve harvesting that is followed by the breaking down of these fibres. This is followed by the use of cellulose conducting a reconstruction of these fibres.

Conclusion

In this tutorial, the focus has been given that states exploration of either natural and synthetic fibres or MMF. However, it is known that MMF is used more than natural fibres as they are cheap and last for a long. However, depending on the quality, natural fibres are considered the best as they have good elasticity and are capable of moisture content.

FAQs

1. What is defined as the properties of fibres?

Fibres tends to posit several qualities that include the notion of handling, lustre, properties that are frictional, strength as well as durability. More to this, fibres consist of other essential qualities that involve absorption of moisture, heat isolation, and resistance to abrasion. However, the Fibres tend to have both physical and chemical properties contributing to their end products.

2. What are said to be man-made fibres?

The man-made fibres or (MMF) consists of both synthetic as well as cellulosic and are said to be the major of all that is produced. The fibres that are cellulosic are made from the pulp of wood whereas; from the crude oil the synthetic fibres are produced. The staple synthetic fibres involve, polyester, polypropylene, and acrylic and viscose and modal, are common examples of cellulosic fibres.

3. What are the examples of synthetic fibres?

The examples of synthetic fibres include rayon, polyester and nylon. Nylon is considered the first synthetic fibre and, however, it is mostly used in making tents, parachutes as well as sleeping bags.