Textiles

Synthetic fibres are artificial fibres made from synthetic polymers, which come from oil, coal and other petrol based chemicals (monomers). The process of joining these monomers together is known as polymerisation, then the mixed polymers are spun into yearns. 

Microfibres are thin, hair-like fibres made from polyamide or polyester. These fibres can be up to 60 times thinner than human hair, which makes them lightweight, they are also strong and water repellent as well as absorbent, breathable and have a very good handle. The most common products made from microfibres are sportswear, underwear, hoisery, and water-repellent outdoor wear.

Synthetic fibres can be developed to have many different appearences and properties. They can be made as filament or staple fibres; they can be bulked or crimped to give more volume; they can be made up as microfibres and tehy can encapsulate chemicals, perhaps to give anti-bacterial properties or to be perfume scented. Because synthetic fiibres are plastic based, they have thermosetting and thermoplastic properties. These allow the fibres to be manipulated using heat to create permanents pleats in fabric and add textures, for example