| 1. Neccessity and charactertistics of mixed fiber |
The necessity of mixed fiber, in terms of fiber production, is significant because;
- the production of synthetic fiber, especially polyester, is growing year after year, for its widely-recognized, superior characteristics and economical efficiency, and
- the production of natural fiber, such as cotton and wool, is limited.
Mixed fiber, in combinations of synthetic and natural types, therefore, is on the increase.
The special characteristics of synthetic fiber include
- high durability,
- heat-settable, excellent wash-and-wear properties, and
- uniform quality with fewer impurities,
with disadvantages such as
- low moisture-absorbency, electrostatic tendency,
- inadequate heat resistance (melts relatively easily),
- pilling, and
- the tendency to oil staining.
However, various new materials with special characteristics can be produced by mixing it with natural fiber, making use of the above-listed advantages and overcoming disadvantages.
Synthetic fiber is particularly suitable for mixing because of its flexibility to fit the denier and length of other fibers.
Besides those between synthetic and natural fibers, the mixtures of multiple synthetic fibers, as well as all-natural types, are produced, taking full advantage of each component. Though the production
is less than that of synthetic/natural combination, their unique features are often much appreciated.
Table 1 shows the effects of mixed fibers in relation to consumption science
| Table 1 Effects of mixed fibers *) |
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| *) Matsui, Senshoku Kogyo [Dyeing Industry], 22, 248 (1974) |
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