2A Linen Flashcards
Natural polymers - plant (cellulosic)
1
Q
Where is linen from?
A
Fibres are harvested from the stem of the flax plant, which blossoms for one day (takes around 100 days for the seed to mature)
2
Q
Properties (linen)
A
- smooth fibre surface: poor insulator
- cool to wear: conducts heat away from the body
- breathable
- absorbent and non-static (can wick away moisture)
- strong(length of fibres)
- biodegradable
- non-elastic: creases badly
- prone to damage by mildew and perspiration
- highly flammable
3
Q
Structure (linen)
A
Irregular polygon shapes:
- gives the fibre a coarse/crisp feel
- stiffer/harder than cotton
- less supple
Hollow cavity:
- moisture penetrates the outer layer of the fibre and is stored in the cavity (moisture absorbed)
4
Q
Fabrics (linen)
A
- duck
- crash
- Union
- luterling
- Holland
- mattress ticking
- Huckaback
5
Q
Finishes (linen)
A
- stain resistance: Teflon/Silicone
- crease resistance: synthetic resin
6
Q
Aftercare (linen)
A
- washable
- can be dry-cleaned/tumble dried
- can be boiled/bleached
- dries quickly: iron when damp for best results
7
Q
End-uses (linen)
A
- clothing(formal attire): suits/shirts/skirts/dresses
- household linen: curtains/tea-towels/tablecloths
- geotextiles, ropes
- sewing thread
8
Q
Blends (linen)
A
- natural: silk/cotton
- man-made: polyester/nylon and elastane
- regenerated: modal/viscose/Tencel
- others: cotton and acrylic
9
Q
Testing (linen)
A
Burning: quickly and with a bright flame/afterglow
Smell: similar to burnt paper
Residue: powdery pale grey ash
