Microfibres

Abstract

Microfibres denote synthetic fibres that are finer than any fibre in nature. Microfibres are usually made of polyester, polyamide, acrylic, modal, lyocell and viscose in the range of 0.5–1.2 dtex. The progress starts with direct spinning and post-spinning developments for manufacturing microfibres. Researches on conjugate spinning techniques are reported along with the development in bicomponent spinning. Interesting developments in manufacturing techniques like the change of cross section without altering the spinneret, radial quenching system, etc., have been discussed. Recent developments like electrospinning have also been taken up. The mechanical processing section commences with the properties of microfibres affecting the downstream process and then discusses the processing of microfibres in blow room, carding, draw frame, speed frame and ring frame. Alternative spinning technologies like open-end, air-jet and compact spinning are dealt with. In the fabric forming systems, weaving and knitting with microfibres are discussed in depth highlighting research on such fabrics. High-speed weaving of microfibres is discussed with reference to three major technologies of projectile, rapier and air-jet weaving. The reactions of microfibres to different hydrolysis environments like alkaline, acidic and enzymatic are taken up. Dyeing of microfibres and the specific problems in dyeing of microfibres are discussed. The study of fibre structure by critical dissolution time is addressed. Different uses of microfibres in terms of industrial, medical, apparel and miscellaneous applications are presented. The economics of production along with the limitations and precautions of the fibre are subsequently discussed followed by suggestions for future work.