(OCR DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY FOR GCSE: TEXTIES Elasticity All fibres and fabries have acertain amount of elasticity, or ‘give’, not to be confused with the qualities of elastic. The more elasticity 2 fibre or fabric has, the less likely it is to crease, and the more comfortable it will be to weer. Absorbency Fabrics that have good absorbency are usually comfortable to wear, as they absorb perspiration, which then evaporates away from the fabric. Fibres and fabrics used for towels need to be absorbent if they are to function. Fibres and fabrics that hold moisture are also less likely to build up static electricity. Static electricity causes fabrics to cling to the body and also to attract and hold dirt particles, neither of which are desirable qualities. Fabrics that are absorbent take a long time to dry. 7 Figure 2.12 Towels need to be absorbent Thermal conductivity Fibres and fabrics that have good thermal conductivity are cool to wear. Heat is conducted away from the body by the fibres and fabric, Fibres and fabrics with poor thermal conductivity are warm to wear, 2s they trap heat next to the body. Washability ‘The washability of fibres and fabrics depends on a number of other performance characteristics such as abrasion resistance, ‘the ability to withstand heat, ability to withstand chemicals, crease resistance and how absorbent a fabric is. This is an important factor to consider when choosing a fabric for an item that will need to be washed. frequently. Figure 2.13 A fleece top needs to be warm to wear: the fabric used has poor thermal conductivity Resistance to chemicals including acid, alkaline and bleach Chemicals are regularly used when washing textile items. Washing agents and febric softeners as well as stain removal agents are chemicals, and it is important to look at the labels on these products before using them on a fibre or fabric. Some fibres and fabrics are particularly sensitive to chemicals and need to be washed carefully Perspiration is a mild acid, as are some fruit juices and vinegar. Leaving these acids in contact with some fibres and fabrics for prolonged periods could cause permanent