Textile fibre identification determines which fibre yarns, fabrics, felts and technical textiles are made of. It is used for incoming raw material verification, supplier comparison and checking label declarations. Analysis is performed on an FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) spectrometer using the ATR (attenuated total reflection) technique; solid, liquid, paste and film samples are usually measured without preparation. The spectrum is compared with reference libraries to identify the material.
Identified
- Synthetic fibres: polyester, nylon (PA), acrylic, polypropylene, elastane, aramid
- Natural and regenerated fibres: cotton, viscose, wool, silk
- Coating layer of coated and laminated fabrics
Reference Standard
- ASTM E1252 – General techniques for obtaining infrared spectra for qualitative analysis
Reporting
The report includes the sample spectrum, the closest library matches with match quality, and an evaluation. Where a comparison is required, a reference (approved) sample should also be sent. For blended fabrics FTIR shows the main fibre types; a quantitative method is needed for the blend ratio.