Selected Physical and Mechanical Properties of Alpaca Fibers Differing in Color

Abstract

ABSTRACT Demand for alpaca fiber is subject to an increase, which is due to its beneficial properties. The study aimed to determine the differences in physical and mechanical properties, as well as heat insulation properties of alpaca fibers differing in color. The research material consisted of Huacaya alpaca fiber samples of white (W), light fawn (LF), medium fawn (MF), dark fawn (DF), and black (BLK) colors. The following properties were examined: diameter, comfort factor (CF), breaking force, elongation at break, tenacity and heat transfer rate. The finest fibers were found in W and DF fleece, while the coarsest ones in MF. CF was the highest in DF fibers. Breaking force LF varied between 6.4 (DF) and 11.7 cN (BLK), while elongation at break was 43.6 (LF) to 54.7% (BLK). No significant differences were found in case of tenacity. The best insulation properties were found for DF fibers. Correlations were confirmed between diameter and mechanical properties, and they differed slightly depending on colors.