Why Understanding Fabric Variety Matters in Biology
Fibers are a continuous chain of molecules that are considered to be filamentous in shape and are also a discrete elongated piece, similar to lengths of thread. There are many types of fibers and it has vast uses in our daily life. In biology they also have significance. Fibers help to hold tissues together in both plants and animals. Fibers are obtained from different sources. Fibers are spun into filaments, string or rope. It can be used as a component of composite materials or matted into sheets to make products like paper. Organic fibers that are found in vegetables and foods are non-digestible.
Types of Fiber
Based on the source of fiber it can be classified into two types.
Natural Fiber- It is the type of fiber that is obtained naturally from living organisms or by geological processes. These fibers are biodegradable over time. These fibers are comparatively expensive and are less available.
Artificial Fiber- It is the type of fiber that is man-made, such as petrochemicals. Some of the artificial fibers are made up of natural cellulose, like rayon, modal, and lyocell. Most of the artificial fibers are non-biodegradable.
Different Types of Fiber
Based on the constituent of the fibers, we can further divide the Natural fibers and artificial fibers as follows
Based on the utilization of fiber producing plants are divided into two types. The plants, which are grown mainly to obtain fiber is called primary plants, they have higher fiber content in them. On the other we can get fibers as a bi-product from some plants, these plants are known as secondary plants.
Based on botanical type natural fibers can be divided into five types.
Bast Type Fiber
Example- JuteLeaf Fiber – This is mainly obtained from sword-shaped leaves which are thick, fleshy, and hard surfaces, such as plants of the agave family.
Example –HenequenSeed Fibre – Fibres that are obtained from seed known as seed fiber. Cotton fiber is very essential and it’s widely used in the textile industry.
Example – CottonGrass and Reed Fiber – Reeds and grasses are grown naturally in marshy lands and are used to make a variety of baskets, mats, and floor coverings.
Wood and Roots Fiber – This type of fiber is usually extracted from the trees, they have high cellulose content.
Natural fibers are obtained from animals which mainly consist of a particular protein. All animals do not have the same property and within the species, the fiber is not consistent.
Example: Wool, Silk.
Artificial fibers are made by the process of polymerization. The artificial fibers which are completely made up of the chemically derived compound are known as purely synthetic fibers and the fibers which are produced by using a natural polymer as raw material is known as semi-synthetic fibers.
Example of semi-synthetic fibers is Rayon
Example of synthetic fibers are nylon, polyester, acrylic
Properties of Fiber
We can observe different properties based on the constituent of the particular fiber.
All the botanical fibers have a density of approximately 1.5gm/m3. Among the botanical fibers, bast fiber is the strongest.
Natural fiber has low weight, high specific strength, and high specific stiffness. As these fibers are biodegradable so they are also eco-friendly.
Animal fibers have a significant value in the textile industry. This fiber shows a variety of morphological character and is made up of proteins. Almost all animal hair is made up of the protein called Keratin.
Artificial fibers are very strong. Synthetic fibers are more durable and wrinkle-resistant than silk or wool so it is used in the textile industry as a substituent. Synthetic fibers absorb less water than silk or cotton.
Fabric use
The fabric has many uses in our daily life. Clothing, bags, apparel, accessories like hats, shoes, scarves, carpets, curtains all are made up of fabric.
Fabrics are also used for medical purposes as bandages and to dress up the wound.
Some of the fabrics are considered luxurious materials, like silk or muslin.
Different Types of Fibers and Their Uses
Uses of Botanical Fibers - Lenzing lyocell fibers are used to support the hops in the growing process or in shellfish farming. This fiber is also used on a large scale as they are disposable.
Uses of Animal Fiber – We get wool from domestic sheep, alpaca fiber, and mohair from angora goats and they are used to make clothing by hand spinners.
Uses of Synthetic Fiber – It is used in making ropes, seatbelts, wrinkle-free, and easily washable clothes.
FAQs on Variety in Fabrics: Types, Properties, and Their Uses
1. What is meant by 'variety in fabrics' as studied in the CBSE syllabus?
Variety in fabrics refers to the wide range of cloths available, which differ based on their source, texture, and properties. This variety arises because fabrics are made from different types of fibres (the raw material) and through different processes like weaving and knitting. For example, a cotton shirt feels very different from a woollen sweater or a silk scarf because each is made from a unique fibre with distinct characteristics.
2. What are the two main types of fibres that create this variety in fabrics?
The two main types of fibres used to make fabrics are:
- Natural Fibres: These are fibres obtained from natural sources like plants and animals. Examples include cotton (from the cotton plant), jute (from the jute plant), wool (from sheep), and silk (from silkworms).
- Synthetic Fibres: These are man-made fibres created using chemical processes. They are not found in nature. Examples include polyester, nylon, and acrylic.
3. How is yarn turned into fabric? Explain the two main processes.
Yarn is converted into fabric primarily through two methods, which contribute to the fabric's final texture and appearance:
- Weaving: This is the process of interlacing two sets of yarns at right angles to each other on a machine called a loom. Most common fabrics like those used for shirts and trousers are woven.
- Knitting: This process involves using a single yarn to form a series of interconnected loops. Knitting can be done by hand or with machines and is commonly used to make stretchy items like sweaters, socks, and T-shirts.
4. Why is cotton considered a comfortable fabric to wear, especially in hot and humid weather?
Cotton is considered very comfortable for summer wear because of its natural properties. It is a soft, lightweight, and breathable fabric, which means it allows air to circulate freely and reach the skin. Most importantly, cotton is an excellent absorber of moisture, so it can soak up sweat, helping the body to cool down. This is a key reason it is preferred over many synthetic fabrics in hot climates.
5. What are some key differences between natural and synthetic fabrics?
Natural and synthetic fabrics have several key differences that affect their use:
- Source: Natural fabrics come from plants or animals, while synthetic fabrics are made from chemical substances.
- Water Absorption: Natural fibres like cotton and wool absorb a lot of water, whereas synthetic fibres like polyester and nylon are water-resistant and dry very quickly.
- Comfort: Natural fibres are generally more breathable and skin-friendly. Synthetic fibres can sometimes feel less comfortable as they trap heat and moisture.
- Durability and Care: Synthetic fabrics are often more durable, wrinkle-resistant, and easier to maintain than most natural fabrics.
6. Why are synthetic fabrics like nylon and polyester often used for making sportswear and raincoats?
Synthetic fabrics are ideal for sportswear and raincoats due to their specific properties. They are hydrophobic, meaning they do not absorb water. For raincoats, this quality makes them waterproof, keeping the wearer dry. For sportswear, this means the fabric does not get heavy with sweat; instead, it wicks moisture away from the skin to the fabric's surface where it can evaporate quickly. Additionally, they are strong, lightweight, and stretchy, providing durability and comfort during physical activities.
7. If both sweaters and t-shirts are made from yarn, why do they feel so different?
The difference in feel between a sweater and a t-shirt comes from two main factors: the type of fibre used and the manufacturing process. A sweater is typically made from thick woollen yarn and is knitted with large loops that trap air, making it warm and fluffy. A t-shirt is usually made from much thinner cotton yarn and is very finely knitted, resulting in a smooth, light, and breathable fabric. Therefore, the combination of fibre and construction method creates the final variety in texture and function.
