Microscopic Characteristics of Common Fibers

Cotton

»Natural fiber, will vary under magnification» Twist characteristic of cotton only

Silk

» Thin, delicate fiber» Crossover indentations

Wool

» Thickness varies depending on species of animal wool taken from» Same microscopic structure as hair˃medulla – channel running down center˃cuticle – outer layer˃cortex – inner layer

Nylon

» Synthetic fiber, little variation under magnification» Appearance will vary by manufacturer» Created to imitate silk macroscopically

Polyester

» Synthetic fiber, little variation under magnification» Appearance will vary by manufacturer» Created to imitate cotton

macroscopically