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Write a profile of a synthetic/man-made fabric under the following headings: - fibre production - properties - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 2(b) - 2015
Question 2(b)
Write a profile of a synthetic/man-made fabric under the following headings: - fibre production - properties. Name and describe one fabric construction technique.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Write a profile of a synthetic/man-made fabric under the following headings: - fibre production - properties - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 2(b) - 2015
Step 1
Fibre production
Answer
Nylon is produced by mixing two chemicals called monomers in a 1:1 ratio. This mixture is then extruded through a water-cooled revolving wheel, which cools the ribbon. After being drawn through a cold water tank where it solidifies, it is cut into chips. These chips are then melted and extruded through a small hole, coming into contact with cold air to solidify into nylon yarn ready for spinning.
Polyester is produced in a manner similar to nylon, where viscous liquid is created and extruded through fine holes into a nozzle or spinneret. The filaments solidify when they reach cool air.
Step 2
Properties
Answer
Nylon is lightweight, strong, and crease-resistant, making it easy to care for. It is also water-resistant and can be set permanently in size and shape to prevent stretching or shrinking after washing. Polyester, on the other hand, offers good wash-wear performance, is wrinkle-resistant, and dries quickly while resisting staining.
Step 3
Name and describe one fabric construction technique
Answer
Weaving is a method where the warp threads are stretched on a loom, with weft passed over and under warp from one side to another. As the weft threads come down the outside edges of the warp threads, a selvage edge is formed, preventing fraying of the fabric. Another common technique is knitting, where yarn is interlooped to create fabric, allowing for elasticity.