This guide is intended for use as a reference to improve the understanding of the relationship between commercial name, fiber identification and geographical regions of fiber origins that make up the composition of textile products.

This guide is intended to be used as a source of information only.

Detailed analysis, to verify specific data related to the composition of a particular fiber, may be necessary.

1.1 This guide lists fibers used to manufacture textile products.

1.2 Specific groups of fibers are identified using tables of standard classification.

1.2.1 Animal fibers are identified by commercial name, biological name, end use, and geographic source.

1.2.2 Vegetable fibers are identified by commercial name, botanical name, staple length or description, and geographic source.

1.2.3 Mineral fibers are identified by commercial name, mineralogical name, chemical description, and geographic source.

1.2.4 Manufactured fibers are identified by commercial name, generic name, and major component.

1.3 Major fiber types used for textile purposes are further classified.

1.3.1 Manufactured fibers are identified as having either an organic base or inorganic base.

1.3.2 Natural fibers are identified as having a cellulosic, protein, or mineral base.

1.4 A glossary of generic names and definitions for manufactured fibers is included as additional information.