Microfiber: features, types and applications

With the development of modern technology, new types of various materials are constantly appearing. Many inventions greatly simplify human life. One of these useful innovations was microfiber, which was developed in the late 70's. XX century, in Japan. Microfiber or microfiber is a synthetic fiber, which is obtained by thin weaving of threads. One fiber of this material is 100 times smaller than human hair.

Microfiber is characterized by a large number of unique properties. It is recognized as one of the lightest and most dense fabrics that have a long service life. Matter does not fade during washing, is resistant to various damages and may be suitable for use for more than 5 years.

The fabric is highly absorbent. Even when wet, microfiber absorbs all excess fluid from any surface and does not form stains. The fiber looks very interesting and has virtually no lint. Due to this characteristic, microfibre cloths remove all dust well from any kind of surface. For very dirty areas, it is worth choosing structured napkins. They remove all the dirt that is absorbed between the fibers.

The material is very pleasant to the touch, leaves no traces and damage, even on fragile surfaces in the form of glass and mirrors. After washing, the material instantly acquires its original appearance. Microfiber can be sold in any color and with any pattern.

In 100% microfiber there can be nylon fibers mixed with polyester and various molecular compounds. The fabric may have a mixed composition or be made from natural threads. If the fabric is marked 100, then it consists of synthetic threads.

Mass production of fiber began in the 80s. XX century. For the manufacture of such a material, very thin fibers are used, the thickness of which is not more than 0.6 microns. The manufacturing process involves the dissolution of synthetic threads under the influence of hot alkali. After such exposure, the threads lose more than half of their weight.

Modern microfiber production involves fabricating two methods. The first option involves the creation of even threads, but not of very large diameter. It is impossible to obtain thin threads with this production method.

In the second method, 2 substances are passed through the holes, due to which a two-element thread is produced. For this, the method of dissolution and division is used. To create such a fiber, a special shape in the form of an asterisk is used. One substance passes through a rod of this shape and then mixes with another. As a result, the composition undergoes heat treatment, and the finished material in cross section is very similar to a star. This method is used to make very thin fibers of 2 substances. The composition does not mix with each other. Due to the special technology, the finest microfibres are obtained.

Real microfiber fiber consists of the following components:

• natural cotton;
• artificial threads;
• synthetics;
• viscose;
• various polymers in the form of polyester and polyamide.

• does not crumple during operation;
• able to absorb 3 times more fluid than its own weight;
• due to the unique structure, water does not enter the fibers;

• not subject to the formation of spools;
• due to its strength, after intensive use, no fibers or fibers remain anywhere;
• Clothing and other microfiber accessories keep the heat perfectly.

In addition to the undeniable advantages, the fabric has significant disadvantages.

• Microfiber items do not withstand high temperatures. Clothes from such material should not be dried near batteries and other heating appliances, as well as ironed.
• The more fat accumulates in the fiber structure, the less moisture is able to absorb material.
• Microfiber can cause an allergic reaction.

• Some types of microfibre, due to its composition, may be prone to spool formation.
• Drying products from this material is necessary in vivo.

Microfiber has a number of undeniable advantages. Although the shortcomings of the material can be quite significant for someone.

The main advantages of the material:

• has a high density;
• dries very quickly;
• during the long operation does not lose color saturation;

Microfiber is made from various fibers and is subjected to different processing. The result is a material having different quality characteristics.

The following types of microfibre are available.

• Modal. It is based on bamboo cellulose. The fabric comes out very soft, wear-resistant and sturdy. It is very soft to the touch and similar to silk materials. Microfiber has a long service life and in the process of use for a long time retains its quality characteristics.

• Tactel is a material that is produced in the USA. This fabric is famous for its delicate and delicate structure.
• Meryl is the most expensive type of microfiber. This type of material has antiseptic characteristics due to the fact that during the production process it is processed with special ions with silver. It makes high-quality underwear.

Due to its unique qualities, microfibre is very popular in many areas of human life. The material has great strength and allows air to pass through, as well as hygroscopicity. The most popular area of ​​application of this material is the use of small pieces for cleaning. Very popular are clothes, underwear and accessories for home and everyday life. Microfiber has a good life, which is very important for most products.

The following are distinguished.

• Cleaning cloth. Wipes for cleaning residential and non-residential premises, as well as vehicles, are in great demand. Wet cleaning accessories that attach to mops are very popular. Microfibre makes special rags for cleaning all kinds of equipment and gadgets. Fabrics with increased absorbency are made from fibers for wet cleaning of cars. Such material ideally absorbs various impurities and water, without leaving stains on the surface. Due to the texture of the fabric, even very fragile surfaces are not damaged or injured. The statics created during the cleaning process perfectly polish the furniture and attract dust.

• Microfiber clothing. Due to the high density of the material, clothes can be sewn from it, which perfectly protects from adverse environmental conditions. The fabric prevents the penetration of moisture and creates excellent heat transfer. The material is made of artificial threads, but it is well suited for the manufacture of things and linen. Thanks to the special technology of tissue production, there is practically no possibility of an allergic reaction.

• Microfiber shoes. Modern technology has helped to create a material that is characterized by great lightness and ease of care. Outwardly, such shoes seem made of leather. It happens without a top layer and visually resembles a nubuck. In the process of wearing such shoes, the feet feel as comfortable as possible and do not get wet. Experts assure that these shoes can be washed and not worry about the safety of its quality.

• Microfiber tights. Due to the use of this material, the item of women's toilet has gained unprecedented strength and quality. This is the main advantage of this product, compared with classic tights. Such tights are very pleasant to the touch, have softness and velvety. In the cool season, they protect much better from the cold.

• Microfiber textiles. Almost all textiles can be microfiber based. From this material they sew bedding, clothes, a sports uniform, etc. Microfiber products are very unpretentious in care and practically do not crease. Sleeping utensils allow air to pass through and it’s very comfortable to sleep under. In the manufacture of high-quality microfiber textile accessories, they will last a long time and will not lose their quality characteristics.

• Upholstery for microfibre furniture. Such a coating will last a very long time and will be unpretentious in terms of care. In order for the upholstery to be in good condition, it is occasionally necessary to wipe it with a sponge or a special brush. In case of dirt, any stains are removed with a soap solution. This material retains its original color and shape for a very long time, it is practically not subject to the formation of various scuffs. Artificial microfiber suede is very popular. This material looks very presentable and noble. At the first examination, even experts find it difficult to answer, when upholstery a natural or synthetic material is used.

In today's world there is a huge selection of different materials.They can be of natural or artificial origin.

The main differences between microfiber and other materials.

• Polyester is a material that is made from petroleum products. During production, it is exposed to high temperatures. Then the fibers are pressed through special aggregates and twisted into thin threads. Polyester also does not crease and has a long service life. However, the fibers of the material are much thicker. To the touch, the thread is much coarser and poorly transmits water and air. The differences in clothing are that polyester items protect against wind and rain.

• Fleece is made of polyester and other man-made fibers. In terms of quality, it looks more like wool. Unlike microfiber, fleece absorbs all the dust and is unsuitable for restoring order and getting rid of dirt. But both materials are breathable and great for making fitness clothes and baby items. In terms of care, fleece products should also be washed at low temperatures and do not twist the fabric after washing.

• Coarse calico is very popular in the manufacture of bed linen and is a completely natural material. Unlike calico, microfiber creates a cool effect on the body and small puffs may appear on such linen. Microfiber bedding can build up static electricity.

• Suede, when caring for the machine, absorbs much more moisture. But this applies to mirror surfaces and glass. All kinds of niches and furniture are best wiped with microfiber. In appearance, some types of microfiber are very similar to natural suede. Unlike microfiber, suede has a more porous and natural structure. Natural suede has a heterogeneous pile thickness in different areas and smells of leather. Artificial material emits a synthetic odor. Microfiber in terms of upholstery has several advantages. In summer, it cools the skin, and in winter, on the contrary, it warms. Microfiber upholstery is much easier to care for.

In order for microfiber products to last as long as possible, they need to be properly maintained.

Basic recommendations for microfiber care.

• Wash in the washing machine, but at the most delicate modes.

• Water temperature should not exceed 40 degrees.
• Do not iron this type of fabric. In case of emergency, it is better to use the minimum temperature conditions of the iron.
• It is not recommended to squeeze things out manually, it is better to get them wet with a towel.

• It is strictly forbidden to dry microfiber products on batteries or other sources of strong heat.
• Experts do not recommend the use of potent products to get rid of stains and other contaminants.
• The fabric may deteriorate from using the air conditioner. Therefore, its use is highly not recommended.

For a review of a microfiber towel, see the next video.