Burning Test for Fiber Identification

• The oldest test used to identify the fibres is burning test.
• It consist of following observations:

(a)    Odour of the gaseous products of combustion (smoke)

(b)   Rate and character of burning

(c)    Action after removal of flame

(d)   Character of ash

Equipment:- source of flame

ð  The best sources are a Bunsen burner or an alcohol lamp.

ð  Cigarette lighter can also be used as a source.

ð  Match is a poorest source, as its burning odour.

Manipulation:-

ð  Fibre should be heavy yarn; length should be 1.5 to 2” by twisting.

ð  Twist of the fibre should be tight, so burning rate will be slow.

ð  The fibre sample should be slowly introduced to the flame from the side.

ð  If the fibre burns in the flame, remove it and note whether it continue to burn. (if it burns without contact with the flame is said to support combustion)

ð  If the fibre fails to support the combustion, quickly note the odour of the gaseous products of combustion.

ð  Do not move the fibre any more than is absolutely necessary as this will cause the smoke to be dispersed in the air.

ð  Note also whether the fibre continues to glow after the flame has been extinguished.

ð  Finally examine the ash from the standpoint of amount from colour and hardness.

ð  Table shows the burning characteristics of the fibre under the conditions stated above.

Reference: 

Textile Testing and Analysis by N A Vaishnav and H D Joshi, Popular Prakashan