Microfiber is a synthetic fiber with a diameter smaller than ten micrometers, making it finer than one denier or decitex per thread. The material consists primarily of polyesters, polyamides, and combinations with polypropylene.
Composition and Properties
The material’s unique characteristics stem from its microscopic structure. Split microfiber has a cross-section resembling an asterisk, creating multiple surfaces for enhanced cleaning and absorption. These fibers utilize van der Waals force to remove dirt without scratching delicate surfaces.
Historical Development
Miyoshi Okamoto, a scientist at Toray Industries, pioneered ultra-fine fiber production in 1960s Japan. This work led to Ultrasuede, the first successful synthetic microfiber, which entered markets in the 1970s. The material gained widespread popularity in Europe during the 1990s, starting in Sweden.
Applications
Athletic and Fashion Wear
Microfiber excels in athletic clothing by wicking moisture away from the body. The material creates durable, soft fabrics for skirts, jackets, and swimwear.
Cleaning Solutions
Microfiber cleaning products reduce bacteria by 99%, compared to 33% with conventional materials. The material’s structure excels at:
- Trapping dirt and absorbing liquids
- Leaving no lint during cleaning
- Attracting dust through electrostatic properties
Automotive and Furniture
Car detailers use microfiber for waxing, interior cleaning, and drying. In furniture, it serves as a practical leather alternative, offering easy maintenance and stain resistance.
Environmental Impact
The material poses environmental challenges:
- Releases microplastics during washing (1.7 grams per wash)
- Contributes to 85% of man-made shoreline debris
- Non-biodegradable due to petrochemical composition
Care Instructions
To maintain microfiber’s effectiveness:
- Wash with regular detergent only
- Avoid fabric softeners and oil-based cleaners
- Keep away from high temperatures to prevent melting
Citations:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microfiber
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Microfibre (microfiber in American English) is synthetic fibre finer than one denier or decitex/thread, having a diameter of less than ten micrometers.
The most common types of microfiber are made variously of polyesters; polyamides (e.g., nylon, Kevlar, Nomex); and combinations of polyester, polyamide, and polypropylene. Microfiber is used to make mats, knits, and weaves, for apparel, upholstery, industrial filters, and cleaning products. The shape, size, and combinations of synthetic fibers are chosen for specific characteristics, including softness, toughness, absorption, water repellence, electrostatics, and filtering ability.
They are commonly used for cleaning scratch prone surfaces such as displays, glass, and lenses. Microfiber cloth makes use of van der Waals force to remove dirt without scratches.
English
Alternative forms
- (Canadian, British) microfibre
Etymology
From micro-
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