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Flax Fabric
An eco analysis
Description
- Linen (flax fabric) is made from 100% natural flax fibres. This fibre is one of the oldest used in textiles for the home & clothing.
- The construction of the flax fibre is a hollow cylinder, called the lumen.
- The colour of natural flax linen ranges from cream to brown.
- This fabric is crisp and starchy, becoming softer over time.
- The appearance can range from matt to lustre.
Uses
- Linen/flax fabric is used around the home in curtains, bed linen, upholstery, table dressings and soft furnishings.
Cost
- Good quality linen can be more expensive than comparable fabrics.
Advantages
- Natural antibacterial & antifungal properties.
- Protection from UV rays.
- Excellent anti allergenic characteristics.
- Excellent anti static characteristics.
- Will not attract or trap dust particles.
- Good sound insulating & acoustic properties.
- Able to absorb a large amount of water & moisture (own dry body weight).
- Absorption ability allows for a wide range of permanent dyes to colour the textile.
- Quick drying material.
- Easily refreshed by washing.
- Ability to retain shape after washing as it does not hold elastic properties.
- Known as one of the fibres that holds the most heat resistance.
- A thermal/cooling regulating fibre which allows skin to breathe – keep you cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Disadvantages
- Acid is known to disintegrate flax fibres.
- Flax fibres are easily ignitable and burn quickly due to the cellulose content.
- Heat resistant properties will deteriorate the natural oils which hold the cells together when exposed to steam and hot water over time - Consider this point when washing & cleaning linen.
Embodied Energy
- Overseas sources of flax crops would lead to higher levels of embodied energy due to increased transportation and distribution.
- Source locally farmed flax sources to make the most of the eco credentials.
Source/Origin
- Widespread farming: USA, Canada, Europe, Far East.
Renewable
- A 100% renewable and abundant natural resource.
- The flax crop has a quick growing cycle.
Recycled Content
Environment & Health
- Crops of flax require up to 5 times less use of fertilisers and pesticides when compared with cotton crops.
- The entire flax crop is used - no waste is created during harvesting.
- Flax farming does not damage the earth beneath and is not hazardous to eco systems.
- Processing does not use as much energy or chemicals compared with artificial textile fibre processing.
- Look for natural, chemical free, untreated and uncoloured linen for the truest eco credentials – check with the manufacturer for details.
- In untreated state, holds no associated health risks.
Performance
- The strongest & most solid textile fibre known.
- Similar tensile strength qualities as some types of steel.
- Strength increases when damp or wet.
- Excellent resistance to pill.
Recyclable
Disposal / Biodegradable
- 100% biodegradable without treatments.
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