textiliích

Textiles are flexible materials made from networks of natural or synthetic fibers, prepared by weaving, knitting, felting, or nonwoven processes. They are used in clothing, interiors, and industrial applications, and range from everyday fabrics to high-performance materials.

Fibers can be natural—cotton, wool, flax, silk, hemp—or synthetic or regenerated—polyester, nylon, acrylic, rayon, lyocell. Fibers are transformed into textiles through weaving (interlacing warp and weft on a loom), knitting (interlocking loops), felting (tangling fibers), or nonwoven techniques (bonding fibers by heat, chemical, or mechanical means). Finishing steps such as dyeing, printing, coating, and water- or stain-repellent treatments tailor appearance and performance.

Historically, textile production emerged in multiple ancient cultures and was transformed by the Industrial Revolution, with mechanized spinning and weaving enabling mass production and global trade. The later introduction of synthetic fibers and advanced finishing expanded possibilities across sectors.

Applications cover apparel, home and interior textiles, upholstery, medical textiles (absorbents, wound dressings), and technical textiles used in geotextiles, automotive, filtration, and energy-related components.

Sustainability challenges include high water and energy use, chemical management, and microplastic release. Responses include use of recycled and organic fibers, closed-loop processing, sustainable dyeing methods, and certifications like GOTS and OEKO-TEX.

Care and lifecycle considerations vary by fiber and finish; general guidance emphasizes appropriate washing temperatures, minimizing heat, and proper recycling or disposal.