Textile exam 4: Regenerated and natural fibers

Synthetic Fibers

Human-made fibers created from petroleum-based polymers.

Polymerization

Chemical process that forms long polymer chains used to make synthetic fibers.

Extrusion

Process of forcing liquid polymer through a spinneret to form filaments.

Spinneret

Metal plate with tiny holes used to shape liquid polymer into fibers.

Polyester (PET)

Durable wrinkle-resistant quick-drying fiber used in apparel and recycled bottles.

Nylon (Polyamide)

Strong elastic abrasion-resistant fiber used in hosiery ropes seatbelts and parachutes.

Olefin

Lightest manufactured fiber hydrophobic and chemical-resistant used in activewear and outdoor fabrics.

Acrylic

Soft warm wool-like synthetic fiber used in sweaters and fleece.

Modacrylic

Flame-resistant acrylic variant used in wigs faux fur and protective clothing.

Aramid

High-strength heat-resistant fibers used in protective gear fire suits and ballistic armor.

Microfiber

Synthetic fibers finer than 1 denier extremely soft with high drape used in apparel and cleaning cloths.

Nanofiber

Ultra-fine fibers under 100 nanometers used in filtration medical textiles and protective gear.

Elastomers

Polymers with rubber-like stretch and recovery.

Elastane Spandex Lycra

Polyurethane-based elastomer that provides recovery rather than stretch.

Recovery

Ability of a fabric to return to its original shape after stretching.

Fabric Construction

Knit or weave structure that creates stretch in a fabric.

Neoprene

Synthetic rubber used in wetsuits braces and laptop sleeves insulating and water-resistant.

Regenerated Fibers

Fibers made from natural cellulose that is chemically dissolved and re-formed.

Viscose Rayon

Soft drapey absorbent regenerated fiber that becomes weak when wet.

Modal

Rayon made from beechwood soft absorbent used in loungewear and underwear.

Lyocell (Tencel)

Regenerated fiber made in a closed-loop system strong smooth sustainable.

Acetate

Crisp lustrous thermoplastic regenerated fiber used in linings and formalwear.

Cupro

Cotton linter rayon silky regenerated fiber made from cotton waste.

SeaCell

Regenerated cellulose blended with algae soft breathable skin-friendly.

Biosynthetic Fibers

Fibers made from renewable biological feedstocks such as corn sugarcane or castor oil.

PLA (Polylactic Acid)

Fiber made from fermented corn starch biodegradable under industrial composting.

Casein Fiber

Fiber made from milk protein silky antibacterial used in luxury apparel.

Bio-Nylon

Nylon made from castor oil strong elastic chemical-resistant.

Thermoplastic Melt Bead

Hard bead left behind when polyester or nylon melts.

Cellulose Burn Behavior

Burns like paper and smells like burning paper.

Protein Burn Behavior

Smells like burning hair.

Synthetic Fiber Microscopy

Smooth uniform fiber surfaces.

Microplastic Pollution

Shedding of tiny synthetic fibers into waterways during washing.

rPET

Recycled polyester made from PET bottles.

Closed-Loop System

Production system where solvents and water are recovered and reused.

Strength

Ability of a fiber to resist breaking.

Elasticity

Ability to stretch and return to original shape.

Absorbency

Ability to take in moisture.

Thermoplasticity

Ability to soften or melt with heat.

Leggings Fiber Choice

Elastane blends for stretch and recovery.

Luxury Lining Fiber

Acetate or cupro for luster and drape.

Wetsuit Fiber

Neoprene for insulation and water resistance.

Fire-Resistant Gear Fiber

Aramid used for heat resistance.