Carpet Fiber Identification & Construction Flashcards

Which fiber type is most susceptible to damage from alkaline cleaning solutions?

Answer: Wool and silk

Wool and silk are protein fibers that can be damaged, yellowed, or degraded by high-pH (alkaline) cleaning agents.

A 'level loop' carpet construction means:

Answer: All loops are uncut and at the same height

Level loop (also called Berber loop) carpet has all uncut loops at a uniform height, creating a smooth, durable surface.

What is 'face weight' in carpet specifications?

Answer: The weight of fiber per square yard in the pile only

Face weight measures only the pile fibers in ounces per square yard, excluding the backing, and is a key indicator of carpet density and durability.

Which identification method is used to distinguish polyester from nylon in carpet fiber?

Answer: Burn test — polyester smells like sweet burning plastic while nylon smells like celery

In the burn test, polyester produces a sweet, sometimes fruity burning plastic odor, while nylon produces a celery or chemical smell.

What does 'tufting' refer to in carpet manufacturing?

Answer: Inserting yarn through a primary backing with needles

Tufting is the most common carpet manufacturing method, where needles insert yarn loops through a primary backing fabric at high speed.

Which carpet fiber has the lowest moisture absorption rate, making it most resistant to mold and mildew?

Answer: Polypropylene (olefin)

Polypropylene is hydrophobic (repels water) and absorbs virtually no moisture, making it highly resistant to mold, mildew, and microbial growth.

The 'twist level' of carpet yarn primarily affects which carpet property?

Answer: Resilience, appearance retention, and texture durability

Higher twist levels help yarn fibers spring back after compression, improving a carpet's ability to retain its texture and resist matting over time.