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Microfiber
Theory, Concepts - Microfibre Technology, Science
About Microfiber
- A microfiber is by definition a material in which the yarn’s
thickness is equal to or less than 1/60th the thickness of an
average human hair.
- Comparatively, microfibers are two times finer than
silk, three times finer than cotton, eight times finer than wool, and
one hundred times finer than a human hair.
- Ultra-microfibers on the market are even finer – some
having thickness of just 1/200th the thickness of human hair!
Microfiber fabrics are easy to care for, machine-washable and will not
lose their shapes. Fabrics constructed from microbers can also be made windproof
and breathable. These two qualities together imply that the fabrics
prevent the smallest drops of water from entering while allowing the
water vapour from perspiration to pass through! These properties result
in these fabrics maintaining an even body temperature in all types of
weather conditions. It is also possible to have a range of finishing for
the Microfibers – crushed and wrinkled finishes that are thermochromic,
antibacterial, anti-UV (those that can prevent ultra-violet rays from
entering), light sensitive and deodarant! Microfiber blends are used in
both prêt-a-porter and haute couture fashion, since these fabrics have a
unique appearance and excellent tactile qualities.
- Currently, there are four types of synthetic microfibers
being produced. These include acrylic, nylon, polyester and rayon. The
most common blend of microfiber material used in automotive detailing
applications is nylon and polyester.
- Ultra Microfibers – Using the latest in microtechnology,
scientists are building fabrics where the fiber itself is scrutinized
and manipulated in minute detail. Microfibres were originally intended
for space and military applications, but textile designers today are
preferring them for their unique appeal.
- Meryl Microfiber is made by Nylstar, an Italian company
which is one of the largest manufacturers of Nylon 6.6. It finds
application in sports where it is used for swimming, sailing &
athletics.
- Kanebo, a Japanese company, manufactures a high-density
polyester, polyamide woven fabric. Called Belseta and made from the
microfiber Belima-X, it is used in fashion and sportswear.
- The European company Akzo Nobel is another company that
has been producing microfibers. This company has been producing
microfibres since 1983
- The German company Hoechst High Chem launched its
polyester microfiber for high-performance clothing, called Trevira
Finesse in 1987. A variation of Trevira Finesse is Trevira Micronesse.
- The Italian textile company Montefibre/Enimont produces
Terital Zero.4. Originally used for sportswear, this polyester filament
microfiber now finds application in fashion and lingerie. Montefibre /
Enimont also produces an acrylic microfiber called Myoliss, and another
Microfibre Leacril.
- Kuraray, the Japanese company, produces ultra-fine
synthetic fibers as alternatives to leather. Their products are called
Clarino and Sofrina, and they are used to produce fabrics used in
sportswear, fashion and luggage.
- Kolon Fibers produces an ultra-microfiber fabric called
Rojel. The warp-knitted fabric from this fibre has the look and feel of
leather.
- DuPont are the leading worldwide producers of polyamide
microfiber. Their best known microfibre brand is Tactel. Tactel, a
registered trademark, describes a wide range of polyamide 6.6 yarns
which can be altered during the finishing processes to create many
effects. Tactel HT is an extremely strong grade that has been used for
parachutes. Tactel texturals are used mainly for active sportswear.
Tactel acquator can be pure or blended with other fibers. Tactel Ispira has
a cross section resembling a spring which makes it elastic while being
strong. Tactel diabolo with its luster and good draping qualities is
marketed for swimwear, underwear and fashion knitwear. The super-soft,
lightweight, strong and lustrous Tactel multisoft is used in hosiery and
underwear. Tactel ispira has a cross section resembling a spring, whick
gives it its strength and elasticity. The ultra-luxurious Tactel micro
is water-repellant and breathable and can be used in hosiery and
rainwear.
- Microfiber with metal foil spots combine to give a
consistent metallic finish. This blend can be used for high-end fashion
garments (especially outerwear)
- Automotive toweling microfiber is created by combining
polyester and polyamide (another name for nylon). The polyamide is used
as the core of the hybrid fiber (generally 20 to 30% of the content) and
the polyester is the outer skin (70 to 80%). Each fiber has specific
qualities that, when properly blended, can be used to weave functionally
specific fabrics
- Microtechnology & Health
- Microfibers engineered with substances suspended in
minute bubbles that can be gradually released. These micro-capsules can
contain medication, vitamins, insect repellants, moisturizers,
essential oils or perfumes. The Japanese are experimenting with
encapsulating anti-ageing creams into fabrics . The microencapsulation
works when the tiny capsules are broken by the fabric when creased or
rubbed.
- The Japanese company Kanebo introduced a
microencapsulation technology to release perfume from its fiber. These
types of “scented fabrics” can be used to make lingerie and hosiery.
Reference & Resources
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