Study Notes on Natural Textile Fibers

Coconut Fiber

  • Source: Obtained from the fibrous part that covers the coconut.
  • Characteristics:
    • Extremely resistant fiber.
    • The yarn produced is thick and durable.
    • Rarely used in clothing due to rough texture, which can be uncomfortable for wear.

Banana Fiber

  • Source: Extracted from the leaves of the banana plant.
  • Material Properties:
    • Strong and versatile, comparable to linen.
    • Can achieve a fineness similar to silk depending on production methods and quality of fibers.
  • Common Fabric: Known as "jusi".
  • Absorption Capacity: Excellent absorption properties, making it suitable for various fabric applications.

Bamboo Fiber

  • Source: Derived from the stems of the evergreen bamboo plant.
  • Material Properties:
    • Strong and durable.
    • Smooth texture, often referred to as vegetable cashmere.
    • Stronger than cotton and possesses anti-static properties.
  • Extraction Process: Similar to that of linen.
  • Performance:
    • Capable of quickly absorbing and evaporating human sweat.
    • Hypoallergenic properties.

Animal Fibers

Overview of Animal Fibers

  • Types: Fibers derived from hair or other parts of animals.
  • Common Sources:
    • Wool: Extracted from sheep, goats, rabbits, camels, and some llama species.
    • Silk: Produced primarily by silkworms.

Wool

  • Definition: A natural fiber obtained primarily from sheep and some types of goats, rabbits, camels, and llamas.
  • Harvesting: Achieved through shearing, which is the cutting of hair from sheep typically performed in the spring.
  • Types of Wool:
    • Virgin Wool: Wool obtained from living animals for the first time.
    • Tanning Wool: Wool derived from deceased animals.
    • Regenerated Wool: Wool made from production waste materials.
      - Major Producing Countries:
    • Australia
    • New Zealand
    • China
    • Britain
    • Uruguay
    • Argentina
    • Pakistan
    • South Africa
    • India
    • Russian Federation
    • Iran
    • Sudan
    • Spain

Sheep Breeds Producing Wool

  • Indigenous Breeds: Known for durable hair, primarily used in mattresses and carpets.
  • Merino:
    • A highly sought breed known for soft fleece.
    • Produces a fine wool with a diameter of less than 20 microns (millionth of a meter).
  • Mohair:
    • Produced from the Angora goat, it is distinct from angora wool.