Vláknin

Vláknin is the Icelandic term for fiber and is used across several disciplines to denote slender, thread‑like materials or substances composed of long molecular chains. Depending on context, it can refer to dietary fiber, textile fibers, or optical fibers, among others.

In nutrition, dietary fiber consists of plant‑derived carbohydrates that resist human digestion in the small intestine. It supports digestive health, can influence blood sugar and cholesterol, and is found in fruit, vegetables, grains, legumes, and seeds. Fibers are classified as soluble or insoluble, with different physiological effects.

In textiles and materials science, fiber refers to a natural or synthetic filament used to form yarns and fabrics. Natural fibers include cotton, wool, and flax; synthetic fibers include polyester, nylon, and acrylic. Fiber properties such as length, fineness, strength, elasticity, and moisture regain affect textile performance and end use.

In communications, optical fiber is a thin strand of glass or plastic that transmits light for high‑capacity data networks. Fiber also appears in composites as reinforcing material, notably carbon fibers, which provide high strength and stiffness at low weight.

Environmental considerations include resource use, manufacturing emissions, and end‑of‑life disposal, with growing emphasis on recycling and reducing microplastic release from synthetic fibers. The term vláknin is used broadly in Icelandic texts and requires context to identify the exact type of fiber being discussed. See also dietary fiber, textile fiber, and optical fiber.