Natural Fibres Flashcards
1
Q
Origin of Cotton
A
- produced by cotton plant
- harvested by hand or machine
- dried before ginning to remove seeds
- fibres then undergo carding & combing to get them to lie in the same direction
- spinning then stretches and twists the fibres into staple yarns
2
Q
Properties of Cotton
A
- Absorbent (moisture can penetrate outer layer and is stored in the hollow cavity of the centre of the fibre)
- conducts heat away from the body (naturally breathable)
- non-static as it contains some moisture
- comfortable on the skin (soft feel)
- relatively strong (twisted nature of the fibres)
- non-elastic so creases easily
- biodegradable
- prone to damage by sunlight and insects
- highly flammable
3
Q
What finishes can be added to cotton and why?
A
- Mercerising (higher strength & lustre)
- Flame resistant (Proban finish)
- Stain resistance (Teflon coating)
- Crease resistance (Synthetic resin: dries faster & non-iron)
4
Q
Materials of Cotton
A
- Polyester
- Polyamide
- Modal
- Wool
- Viscose
- Elastane
