**2. Fiber properties for textile applications**

The properties which qualify the textile fibers to be used for textile applications are being discussed in detail in the following section:

#### **2.1 Length and appearance**

Length of fiber influence their selection for fabric production. Short staple natural fibers like cotton, jute, wool impart rough look to fabrics made from these fibers. However, fabrics made of nylon, polyester filament yarns exhibit smooth and shiny look. Moreover, short wavy fibers like cotton and wool have affinity for dirt particles while long, continuous filament fibers like silk or synthetic fibers are easy to clean and do not get as dirty as their natural, staple counterparts. Accordingly, wool, jute fibers are used for apparels and fashion accessories where designer aims to explore rough, crimpy fabric appearance as the design feature while accessories like scarves, stoles which demand sheen and smooth, soft look and feel, utilizes silk or filament fiber yarns and fabrics in their designing.

#### **2.2 Moisture absorption**

The fibers vary in their affinity for water molecules with natural fibers like cotton inherently hydrophilic while synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon exhibit hydrophobicity or low moisture absorption. The moisture absorption property of fibers determine their selection for apparels and accessories suitable for a particular season. Summer wear apparels and accessories should provide rapid sweat absorption from wearer's skin and thus utilizes hydrophilic fibers like cotton. Fabrics made of synthetic fibers, being hydrophobic do not soak sweat and are uncomfortable in summers. A special consideration of fiber type is important while designing textile end products like gloves, socks which are in intimate contact with skin where sweat accumulation may lead to dampness and discomfort to the wearer.
