Textile encompasses fibers, yarns, filaments, and various fabric types. Textiles are divided into consumer and technical categories. Fiber is the smallest component, spun into yarn for fabric production
Cellulose is a polymer made of repeating glucose molecules. Natural fibers contain 60-80% cellulose, 5-20% lignin, and 20% moisture. Cellulose molecules are straight chains, unlike coiled starch
Rugs have been used since ancient times, with references in classical writings. First rug weavers introduced the concept to the rest of the world
Textile fibers are materials that can withstand tensile, friction and bending forces. Fibers must have high length-to-width ratio and be flexible. Natural fibers are produced from plants, animals or minerals. Synthetic fibers are made from petroleum products
Elongation at break measures fiber's resistance to shape changes without cracks. Natural fibers show better specific modulus and elongation than synthetic fibers. Bast and leaf fibers have lower elongation than industrial man-made fibers. NaOH treatment improves fiber elongation but not tensile strength
Cotton is most widely used, cheapest to produce, and used for over 7,000 years. Flax produces luxurious linen, used for thousands of years in ancient Egypt. Hemp is environmentally friendly, grows faster than most trees, and produces twice as much fiber as cotton. Ramie is long-lasting, lightweight, and eco-friendly, used as cotton substitute. Jute is cheapest natural fiber, grows in tropical areas, and used for clothing and packaging