tekstilfibre

Textile fibre refers to a natural or manufactured filament that can be spun into yarn and woven or knitted into fabric. Fibres are typically long and flexible, though some natural fibres are classified as staple fibres (short lengths). The fineness of a fibre is commonly measured in denier or tex, and fibres may be categorized as staple or filament.

Natural fibres include plant fibres such as cotton, flax (linen), hemp, and jute, as well as animal fibres such as wool and silk. Regenerated or semi-synthetic fibres are produced by dissolving natural polymers and regenerating them into new fibres, examples being viscose (rayon), lyocell, and modal. Synthetic fibres are polymer-based, such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, and olefin, often manufactured by melt extrusion and drawn to align the polymer chains.

Fiber properties influence fabric performance. Important characteristics include tenacity (strength), elasticity, moisture regain, thermal properties, and resistance to abrasion or chemicals. Fibre diameter, length, and cross-section affect hand, drape, and appearance. Processing methods convert fibres into yarns, which are then woven or knitted into fabrics. Fibres may be used alone or in blends to tailor properties for specific applications.

Applications span apparel, home textiles, and technical or industrial sectors such as medical, automotive, and filtration. Environmental considerations vary: natural fibres rely on agricultural inputs, while synthetic fibres depend on petrochemicals and energy and can contribute to microplastic pollution. Recycling, biodegradability, and durable design are increasingly emphasized to improve sustainability in fibre use.