Textile Term: Fiber
In textile, a fiber is a thin, flexible strand or thread of a natural or synthetic material used in the construction of textiles. Fibers can be classified into two categories, natural and synthetic.
Natural fibers are derived from plants, animals, and minerals, while synthetic fibers are man-made and typically produced from petrochemicals. Examples of natural fibers include cotton, silk, wool, and linen, while examples of synthetic fibers include polyester, nylon, and acrylic.
Fibers can also be classified by their physical characteristics, such as length, diameter, and strength. For example, some fibers are long and continuous, while others are short and staple. Some fibers are thick and strong, while others are thin and delicate. Additionally, fibers can be treated with various chemical or mechanical processes to improve their properties or alter their appearance.
Fibers are used in a variety of textile applications, including clothing, home furnishings, and industrial fabrics. The properties of a fiber determine its suitability for a particular application.
For example, cotton fibers are often used in clothing because they are soft, breathable, and comfortable to wear, while polyester fibers are commonly used in outdoor fabrics because they are durable and resistant to water and UV light.
