Fibres, which are part of a filiform element, have a transverse dimension and are also found in high length and width ratios. They are made up of macromolecules, which in common language are called polymers. These polymers are monomer-like structures, or they are formed by combining several monomers. They are also found to be chemically stable. By mixing these monomers, we make polymers. The most important part of a polymer is its length, where we can see an elongated structure made of monomers. The fibres are predominantly oriented in nature, exhibiting crystalline properties. Their shape is mainly found longitudinally aligned. The monomers found in these are parallel to the sequence. Fibres mainly have high tensile strength and properties like low elongation and resistance to chemicals and heat.
What are fibres?
Fibres are made up of long strands of molecules, which have a linear, string-like structure, making them flexible, soft, and comfortable. Fibres are mainly used by people in all seasons, and they help to cover and protect their hair and skin. They help in providing softness to the body and their skin.
What kinds of fibres are there?
We can divide fibres in many ways; we can divide them based on their structure, appearance, or texture. We can also classify fibre based on natural or man-made fibre, mainly based on origin. Such fibres are mainly of synthetic, synthetic and inorganic fibre types. Some of these fibres are mentioned below:
- Natural fibres
- Non-Natural fibres
- Inorganic fibres
- Functional fibres
- Nanofibres
Natural fibres
Natural fibres are made from materials found naturally, the primary sources of which are animals or plants from which these fibres are made—for example, the manufacture of silk, which is produced by insects through secretions from their glands. The fibroin strands sericin are the main contributors to silk manufacture. Similarly, wool is also made from animal products. Keratin is the main contributor to the manufacture of wool.
Similarly, there is also a vegetable fibre whose structure is very long, and mainly cellulose is the main contributor in the formation. Formulation of such fibres can be achieved through mediums such as seed fibre, stem fibre, leaf fibre and fruit fibre. Vegetable fibres also come with several advantages, including low cost, low density, renewable and biodegradable properties.
Apart from this, natural fibres also have some disadvantages, such as high absorption of moisture, reduced resistance to microorganisms, and less thermal stability. Mineral fibres are also part of these natural fibres, which are obtained from rocks that have fibrous structures, in whose formation silicates are the main contributor.
Non-natural fibre
Non-natural fibres are mainly known as man-made fibres; technology such as mechanical efficiency, thermal stability, and electrical conductivity are mainly used in their manufacture. Synthetic fibres are manufactured from oil through chemical precursors, giving a vast number of properties. The physical, chemical and mechanical properties also impact the manufacture of synthetic fibres. The main examples of non-natural fibres are polyester fibres, polyamide, or polypropylene forms, which are used in clothing, home textiles, transportation, medicine, aerospace and building construction.
Inorganic fibres
It is manufactured based on some natural elements like carbon, silicon, and boron, based on which inorganic chemicals are manufactured. High temperatures are generally used in their manufacture, which is how this fibre is manufactured. It is also called super fibre. These fibres have properties such as high mechanical resistance and high thermal resistance. This fibre is also used in making clothes and in the pharmaceutical industry.
Functional fibres
Functional fibres, generated by getting nutrients from fruits, vegetables, nuts, beans, and grains, are primarily for specialised purposes. Fibre that is “functional” is isolated from its natural sources and added to supplements or fortified foods and beverages to increase their fibre content. Functional fibres are used for antimicrobial fibre, thermo-regulating, high-temperature resistance, moisture management, conduction of electricity, etc.
Nanofiber
Nanofiber production is a significant contribution to nanosciences and nanotechnology, which are mostly used for research, development, and innovation. Polymers such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polybenzimidazoles, polyacrylonitrile, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester are usually made with nanofibres. Nanofibres are noted for having unique qualities such as a minimal number of flaws and the capacity to mimic biological processes. It is also commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry, implant materials for nano and microelectronic devices, and electromagnetic fields.
Conclusion
Apart from this, multicomponent fibres are also being seen today, which are made by combining at least two polymers. There are many alternatives in fibre, like polyethylene and polypropylene, polyethylene, which meet the needs of today. They are light, robust, soft and comfortable with low melting points. Also, the main use of fibre is seen in main places like medicine, architecture, agriculture, fashion, and engineering.