Distinguishing natural fibres from synthetic fibres

How do natural and synthetic fibres differ in origin and properties, and which tests help to identify these differences clearly and understandably?

1. Burning test

Cut a small piece of the fibre and hold it to a flame (e.g. a candle or a lighter).
• Natural fibres (cotton, wool, silk, linen):

1. Burn slowly, often leaving ash residues.
2. Smell like burnt paper (plant fibres) or burnt hair (animal fibres).

• Synthetic fibres (polyester, nylon, acrylic):

1. Melt and char rather than burn.
2. Form hard plastic beads.
3. Smell chemical, often like burnt plastic.

2. Touch and wrinkle test

1. Natural fibres: Often feel softer, warmer, and more pleasant. More prone to creasing (especially linen and cotton).
2. Synthetic fibres: Often feel smoother or more plastic. Crease less or not at all.

3. Water absorption test

1. Natural fibres: Absorb water well, dry more slowly.
2. Synthetic fibres: Water tends to bead off, dry quickly.

4. Friction test (static charge)

1. Rub the fabric on your arm or on dry hair.
2. Natural fibres: Rarely build up static electricity.
3. Synthetic fibres: Often generate a noticeable static charge (hair stands on end).

5. Light permeability (silk vs. polyester silk)

1. Hold thin fabrics against the light:
2. Real silk: Shows an irregular refraction of light (shines naturally).
3. Polyester silk: Often shines uniformly and artificially.

If you are still unsure, you can combine several tests. Do you suspect a specific material?

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