From Fibers and Their Properties Classification of Fibers Fibers
are broadly classified into natural fibers and man-made fibers,
as shown in Figure 1-1: Figure 1-1: Classification of Fibers
Natural fibers are hair-like threads obtained directly from
plants, animals, and mineral sources. Botanically, a natural
fiber is a collection of cells having long length and negligible
diameter. They are obtained as continuous filaments or discrete
elongated pieces similar to thread. They can be spun or twisted
into yarn such as cloth and can be converted into nonwoven
fabrics, such as paper or felt. An example of a commonly used
natural fiber is cotton. Other examples include wool, jute,
silk, hair, fur, hemp, and linen. The characteristics of natural
fibers are: They can be spun or twisted into yarn to make cloth.
They can be converted into nonwoven fabrics. They are strong and
durable. They have high moisture absorbing capacity. They
provide excellent look and feel. They are comfortable. Natural
fibers can be classifie