Fibertyper

Fibertyper is a proposed technology and method for identifying and classifying textile fibers in materials and products. It combines spectroscopic analysis, imaging, and computational classification to determine fiber type, blend composition, and fiber morphology from small samples or through non-destructive surface measurements. The concept appears in textile science and materials research as a potential tool for quality control, recycling, and forensic analysis.

In typical designs, Fibertyper would integrate near-infrared or Raman spectroscopy with optical microscopy and machine learning. A probe or scanner collects spectral and imaging data from a material surface or cross-section. An analysis pipeline compares the data against a library of reference spectra and morphological features, then outputs a probability distribution over likely fiber types and blend ratios.

Potential applications include quality control in textile manufacturing, automated sorting for recycling streams, verification of fiber content in goods, and forensic investigations involving fabric evidence.

Limitations include spectral similarity among different fibers, especially blends and dyed samples; the need for extensive, well-curated reference libraries; sensitivity to surface conditions; and challenges integrating into production lines and keeping pace with new fiber chemistries.