The spelling of the word "microfibre" can be tricky for non-native English speakers. It is pronounced /ˈmaɪkrəʊfaɪbə/ with the stress on the second syllable. The word is made up of two parts, "micro" meaning small and "fibre" meaning a thread-like structure. The use of the letter "i" instead of "y" in the first syllable reflects the Greek root "micros" which means small. The letter "e" at the end of the word indicates that it is a noun. Thus, "microfibre" refers to a small thread-like structure commonly used in cleaning and textiles.
Microfibre is a type of synthetic textile material that is known for its superior quality and functionality. It is made up of very fine fibers, typically smaller than one denier (a unit of measurement for fiber thickness), that are woven or knitted together to form a fabric. These ultra-fine fibers are usually composed of polyester, polyamide, or a blend of both.
Microfibre is highly valued for its exceptional softness, lightweight nature, and ability to absorb moisture. The incredibly small diameter of the fibers enables microfibre to create a large surface area for enhanced absorbency and quick-drying properties. This makes it an ideal material for various applications, such as cleaning cloths, towels, sportswear, bedding, and upholstery.
Another significant advantage of microfibre is its exceptional ability to attract and trap dirt, dust, and other particles due to its electrostatic properties. The fine fibers generate a static charge that helps to pull in and hold onto particles, making it an effective tool for cleaning or dusting surfaces without the need for additional cleaning agents.
Microfibre is also recognized for its durability and resistance to shrinking, wrinkling, and fading. It is often praised for its hypoallergenic qualities, as the fine fibers tend to be less likely to cause skin irritation compared to natural fibers. Additionally, microfibre fabrics can be engineered to have specific properties, such as heat and flame resistance or advanced moisture-wicking capabilities.
Overall, microfibre is a versatile and highly functional textile material that has become increasingly popular due to its exceptional absorbency, dirt-attracting properties, durability, and softness.
The word "microfibre" is a combination of the Greek prefix "micro-" meaning "small" or "tiny" and the word "fibre" which refers to a slender thread-like structure.
The term "microfiber" was first coined in the 1960s when a Japanese scientist named Dr. Miyoshi Okamoto invented a new type of synthetic fabric with extremely fine fibers. These fibers were much thinner compared to conventional fibers, hence the prefix "micro-" was added to highlight their small size.
Over time, the term "microfiber" became widely used to describe a range of synthetic materials made from ultra-fine fibers typically measuring less than one denier in diameter. These microfibers are commonly used in the production of various textiles, including cleaning cloths, athletic wear, and upholstery, due to their exceptional softness, durability, and absorbency.