Textile Theory

Basic Properties of Fibers

For a textile fiber to be important and useful, it must be:

• Available in large quantities.
• Reasonably cheap.
• Durable in everyday conditions.
• Capable of being dyed or printed in a variety of fast shades.

Classification of Fiber Properties

1. Primary Properties
2. Secondary Properties

Primary Properties of Textile Fibers

1. Length to Width Ratio

   • A considerable length relative to its diameter is necessary.
   • Essential for making yarns that hold constituent fibers together.
   • Typically, the ratio is more than 1000:1.

2. Tenacity

   • Refers to the strength of a fiber, contributing to stronger yarns.
   • Measured in tension when loaded along its long axis.
   • Defined as maximum tensile stress at rupture.

3. Flexibility

   • Fibers should be pliable to wrap around others during spinning.
   • Stiffer fibers, like glass or metallic, are less adaptable.
   • Direct relationship between fiber and yarn strength and elongation.

4. Spinning Quality (Cohesiveness)

   • Ability of fibers to cling or stick together when spun into yarn.
   • Achieved through frictional resistance, preventing separation.
   • Rigid fibers tend to have lower cohesiveness.

5. Uniformity

   • Refers to the evenness in fiber length and diameter.
   • Ensures production of even yarns and contributes to yarn strength.

Secondary Properties of Textile Fibers

• Physical Shape & Colour
• Lustre
• Elasticity and Elastic Recovery
• Resiliency
• Density
• Moisture Absorbency & Regain
• Abrasion Resistance
• Wicking

These properties enable fibers to be converted into yarns and fabrics using common textile machinery.