Fibers in Forensics and Their Melting Temperatures
| Fiber Type | Classification | Melting/Decomposition Temperature (°C) | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton | Natural (Plant-based) | 250-300 (Decomposes) | Composed of cellulose; burns, does not melt. |
| Wool | Natural (Animal-based) | 200-220 (Decomposes) | Composed of keratin; chars, does not melt. |
| Silk | Natural (Animal-based) | 165-175 (Decomposes) | Protein-based; burns slowly. |
| Rayon | Semi-synthetic | 200 (Decomposes) | Cellulose-based, similar to cotton. |
| Flax (Linen) | Natural (Plant-based) | 240-260 (Decomposes) | Composed of cellulose; similar to cotton. |
| Jute | Natural (Plant-based) | 200-250 (Decomposes) | Used in ropes and sacks. |
| Hemp | Natural (Plant-based) | 200-250 (Decomposes) | Durable and strong fiber. |
| Nylon 6 | Synthetic (Polyamide) | 215-220 | Melts before burning; strong fiber. |
| Nylon 66 | Synthetic (Polyamide) | 250-260 | High melting point, used in fabrics. |
| Polyester | Synthetic | 260-280 | Melts and burns; commonly used in clothing. |
| Acrylic | Synthetic | 320-400 | Melts and burns with a pungent odor. |
| Acetate | Semi-synthetic | 260-300 | Derived from cellulose; melts and burns. |
| Aramid (Kevlar, Nomex) | Synthetic (Polyamide) | 400-500 (Decomposes) | Heat-resistant; used in protective gear. |
| Polypropylene | Synthetic | 165 | Melts easily; used in ropes and carpets. |
| Spandex (Lycra) | Synthetic | 250-270 | Elastic fiber; melts before burning. |
| Glass Fiber | Inorganic | 850 (Softens) | Does not burn; highly heat-resistant. |
| Carbon Fiber | Inorganic | ~3650 | Heat-resistant; used in composites. |
| Alpaca Wool | Natural (Animal-based) | Decomposes at ~200-220 | Similar to sheep wool; burns, does not melt. |
| Cashmere | Natural (Animal-based) | Decomposes at ~200-220 | Fine wool; chars rather than melts. |
| Mohair | Natural (Animal-based) | Decomposes at ~200-220 | Obtained from Angora goats; burns slowly. |
| Bamboo Fiber | Semi-synthetic | 250-300 (Decomposes) | Derived from bamboo cellulose. |
| Lyocell | Semi-synthetic | 250-300 (Decomposes) | Eco-friendly cellulose fiber. |
| Elastane | Synthetic | 250-270 | Similar to Spandex; melts before burning. |
| Coir | Natural (Plant-based) | 200-250 (Decomposes) | Derived from coconut husk; used in ropes. |
| Kapok | Natural (Plant-based) | 200-250 (Decomposes) | Lightweight fiber used in stuffing. |
| Ramie | Natural (Plant-based) | 250-300 (Decomposes) | Similar to linen; durable. |
| Sisal | Natural (Plant-based) | 200-250 (Decomposes) | Used in mats and ropes. |
| Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, Teflon) | Synthetic | 327 | Non-flammable; used in industrial applications. |
| Polycarbonate | Synthetic | 230-260 | Durable, resistant to high temperatures. |
| Melamine Fiber | Synthetic | 400-450 (Decomposes) | Used in fire-resistant clothing. |
| Basalt Fiber | Inorganic | 1400 | High heat resistance; used in composites. |
| Vicuña Wool | Natural (Animal-based) | 200-220 (Decomposes) | Rare and expensive natural fiber. |
| Polylactic Acid (PLA) | Synthetic (Biodegradable) | 150-180 | Eco-friendly fiber; melts and burns. |