4.2e Textiles Flashcards
What are fibers?
The raw form which is often used in the manufacture of other materials, called composites. They can be processed into long forms (yarns)
What is yarn?
A long continuous fiber
What are threads?
Thin yarn used in sewing
What is fabric?
A sheet of material made of yarns and fibers by weaving, knitting, or felting
What are the raw materials for textiles?
Natural fibers (fibers produced by plants/animals)
Synthetic fibers (fibers made from man-made material)
What are the properties of natural fibers?
High absorbency
Low tensile strength
Low elasticity
Burn but not melt against high temperatures
What are the properties of synthetic fibers?
Low absorbency
High tensile strength
High elasticity
Will burn and melt against high temperatures
What are examples of natural fibers and their properties?
Wool
Originates from sheep
Good insulator
High durability
High absorbency
Used in clothing, rugs, blankets
Cotton
Originates from cotton plant
High absorbency
Used in clothing, bedding
Silk
Originates from silk cocoon
Strong + lightweight
Used in clothing, stitches, bedding
What are examples of synthetic fibers and their properties?
Nylon
Originates from petrochemicals
Good abrasion resistance
Low absorbency
High elasticity
Used in raincoats, parachutes
Polyester
Originates from petrochemicals
Strong
Resistance to stretching
Used in seat belts, ropes, clothing
Lycra
Originates from petrochemicals
High elasticity
Used in sportswear
What is the process of converting fibers to yarns?
Fibers needs cleaning/ refining
Next the fibers will be combined by slightly twisting
The fibers are then spun together and wrapped to create a single strand of yarn
What are the processes of converting yarns to fabrics?
Weaving: interlocking yarns at right angles to create a fabric
Knitting: creating consecutive rows of interlocking loops of yarn
Lacemaking: weaving of yarns and threads into delicate patterns
Felting: compressing and matting fibers together
What are the ethical considerations for the recovery and disposal of textiles?
Textile manufacturing usually takes place in developing countries with low skilled labor in poor conditions
The genome of goats has been altered to produce silk proteins
What are the environmental considerations for the recovery and disposal of textiles?
Chemicals and pesticides are used in the production of natural fiber
Dyes release toxic chemicals
Excessive emissions from transportation
Significant consumption of water to clean
