Microbiological Damage to Fibers

Abstract

All natural fibers can be damaged by microbial attack; the fibers themselves serve as a nutrient substrate for microorganisms. In the case of synthetic fibers, the lubricants, sizings, softening agents and finishes used during textile manufacturing assume this function [51]. Favorable preconditions for growth of microorganisms are particularly created by the combination of heat and high atmospheric humidity during storage in still air. During summertime, the hazard of damage by microorganisms is very high in sizing rooms, dyehouses and finishing plants because high room temperatures and high relative humidity prevail in the wet areas. Textiles with an excessive moisture content are frequently packaged in sheets or plastic bags. On the other hand, bottlenecks occuring at drying aggregates in the finishing plants often account for the fact that pieces which are spin-damp or improperly dried must be left over the weekend or the works holidays [52].