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Materials

Lesson 6:

Types of textiles

a) Natural vegetable fibers

Vegetable fibers are those that are extracted from plants.

Cotton

Cotton is the most used natural fiber that is why it is the best choice to make soft and breathable clothes. It is also a good thermal insulator.


Linen

It is quite breathable and light, reason why it is mainly used to manufacture summer clothes.


b) Natural animal fibers

Wool

Sheep wool is even more breathable and insulating than cotton. Its main drawback is that it is not as soft as other fabrics, for that reason it is mainly used to make clothes that are not in touch with the skin (sweaters, jackets, coats…).


Silk

This textile is known for its softness and shine, apart from being quite strong. It is used to manufacture high-quality clothes.

(Blouses and shirts are sometimes made of silk)

(A silkworm)


Cashmere

This fabric is famous for its soft feel and thermal insulation. It is warmer and lighter than common wool.

( A cashmere scarf)

(Cashmere goats)


c) Artificial fibers

Nylon

It is a very strong, soft and light textile. It is used to manufacture weather (cold, rain, wind…) resistant coats, ropes, fishing line, brushes…

(Winter coats are frequently made of nylon)


Polyester

It is a strong and durable fabric (but less than nylon) that does not absorb liquids (waterproof). Its main drawback is that it is not breathable, so it is frequently mixed with other fibers like cotton.

(Waterproof raincoats are usually made of polyester)


Carbon fiber

This kind of fabric is extremely strong, tough and light. This is why it is used in the aerospace industry and to manufacture competition vehicles (in Formula 1 competitions, for example). It is also used in other applications in which lightness is necessary, for example, to make windmill blades.

*Just the part about textiles.

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