ABSTRACT
This chapter identifies varieties of fibre, including the most common natural and manufactured fibres. Brief mention is made of important sources for scientific and technological research, aimed at improving knowledge of known fibres and the discovery (or invention) of new forms and how best to process each. General properties are listed for most fibre types, both natural and manufactured. Various bast, leaf and seed fibres are considered, as are various fibres sourced from mammals (e.g. wool) and insects (e.g. silk). A range of manufactured fibres is considered, including those that are re-generated from cellulosic sources as well as synthetic fibres such as nylon, polyester and acrylic. Mention is made also of various high-performance fibres such as aramid fibres. Numerous longitudinal and cross-sectional microscopic views are presented also.
