They may char and degrade in high heat. Because of their high cost, texture, and appearance they are used in specialty gear and industrial applications, but are not commonly found in consumer clothing and household textiles. Flammable fibers can be given flame resistant finishes to reduce their likelihood of catching fire. Top of Page 8. The different burning characteristics of cellulosic, protein, and manufactured fibers are often used as an initial step in fiber identification for beginning textile students.
Microscopic examination can usually identify different cellulosic fibers.
However, solubility tests must be used to classify manufactured fibers. Top of Page 9. Fabric construction greatly alters burning. Fibers burn differently when they are in a cloth structure. The more oxygen that is available between the fibers, the more rapid the burning.