Fabrics Around Us | Class 11 Home Science Notes

SOME IMPORTANT FIBRES

This section discusses key fibres widely used in textiles, their sources, properties, and applications. Cotton, a natural cellulosic staple fibre from the seed hair of the cotton plant, is the most widely used fibre for apparel and home textiles. Cotton fibres vary from 1 to 5 cm in length, producing dull, slightly rough fabrics that are heavier than many fibres. Cotton absorbs moisture well and dries quickly, making it comfortable for summer wear. Linen, a bast fibre from flax plant stems, is longer and finer than cotton, producing stronger, lustrous yarns. Linen absorbs moisture but dyes less readily, resulting in less bright colors. Jute and hemp are coarser bast fibres used for ropes and gunny bags. Wool, a natural protein fibre from sheep and other animals, varies in length from 4 to 40 cm and has natural crimp providing elasticity and warmth. Wool has low strength but good resilience and elastic recovery, with surface scales that repel water but absorb moisture internally, making it comfortable in cold and humid climates. Silk, a natural protein filament fibre from silkworm secretion, is smooth, fine, and lustrous. Cultivated silk is finer and smoother, while wild silk is coarser and stronger. Silk has good strength, elastic recovery, and moderate elongation. Rayon, a manufactured cellulosic fibre made from wood pulp, has uniform diameter and lustre but lower strength than cotton. Nylon, the first true synthetic fibre, has smooth, shiny filaments with excellent strength, abrasion resistance, and elasticity. Polyester (Terylene or Terene) is a synthetic fibre with smooth, rod-like appearance, low moisture absorption, and excellent wrinkle resistance. Acrylic resembles wool and is used as a wool substitute in apparel and blankets. Elastomeric fibres like rubber and spandex provide elasticity and are blended with other fibres for stretch. Understanding these fibres helps in selecting appropriate fabrics for various uses.

📊 Diagram: No specific diagram in this section.

🔗 Connection: Leads to practical applications and testing of fabrics.