Journal of Design and Textiles

Characterization and Optimization Techniques for the Extraction of Fibers from Ficus Thonningii

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The investigation of natural fibers as viable substitutes for synthetic materials has intensified due to environmental and financial considerations. It has been acknowledged that Ficus thonningii is a viable source of natural fibers due to its resistance and capabilities. The current study aimed to extract and characterize F. thonningii fibers from F. thonningii plant found in Ethiopia. The extraction methods used included water and chemical retting with sodium hydroxide. The extraction was optimized by DOE. Mechanical, physical, and chemical properties of the extracted fibers, such as tensile strength, elongation, fiber length and diameter, fiber fineness, moisture content, moisture regain, fiber’s cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin, and ash contents were characterized. Results showed that F. thonningii fibers have comparable fiber strength (39.65cN by chemical extraction and 37.83cN by water extraction), elongation (3.02% by water extraction and 2.6% by chemical extraction), fiber length (101.5mm by both methods), moisture content (10.35% by water extraction and 10.78% by chemical extraction), and moisture regain (11.02% by water extraction and 11.98% by chemical extraction) with jute, sisal, and flax. The chemical composition was found to be 52.35% of cellulose, 19.2% of hemicellulose, 17.2% of lignin, and 1.2% of ash for water extraction and 63.57% of cellulose, 16.1% of hemicellulose, 12.1% of lignin, and 0.83% of ash for chemical extraction. This proves that F. thonningii plant found in Ethiopia is a source of coarse fibers, thus, can be utilized for technical textiles application.

Dissenting Art- Political Cartoons of Anwar Ali (1922-2004)

Mamoona Zahid, Muhammad Ashraf — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Anwar Ali began his career as a cartoonist with Dawn, a publication based in New Delhi. He joined Pakistan Times in Lahore as a staff cartoonist on February 4, 1947, and served until 1980. Anwar Ali’s cartoons carried strong political critique and social satire on both national and international issues of his time. Throughout his artistic career, he produced imagery highlighting the hypocritical attitude of the ruling class toward ordinary people of the newly-established Pakistan. Later, he created a pocket cartoon character Nanna, which served as a satirical portraiture of society. This paper examines the role and impact of Anwar Ali’s cartoons, focusing on their political and social critique and their contribution to the discourse of his time.

Maternity Wear Preferences, Problems, and Expectations of Pregnant Women of Pakistan

Hina Rashid, Ayesha Saeed, Muhammad Abiodullah — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 09:17:04 +0000

Pregnant women tend to experience fast, non-linear anthropometric changes, especially in their chests, abdomen, and hips during the periods following gestation. Research has shown that physical changes get more prominent in the 2^nd and 3^rd trimester of pregnancy. However, the present Pakistani apparel market does not cater to the clothing needs of pregnant women who are compelled to choose plus-size garments to cater and camouflage their body changes. Interviews were conducted to understand and design the maternity garment requirements, problems, preferences, and expectations of Pakistani pregnant women. To obtain the desired in-depth information, open-ended questions were asked. The information collected was analyzed through qualitative analysis and themes were generated. The results reflected preference towards loose-fitted, breathable, and highly absorbent single layered garments which could cover their body silhouettes. The pregnant women disapproved highly embellished, fitted, and multilayered synthetic-based garments. However, they desired to wear stylish and innovative outfits, designed within the boundary of cultural and religious norms.

Prototype Design and Amenities Clinic Development for Transgender Community

Fahad Zakir, Ahsan Imtiaz — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The current study aimed to survey the health challenges and concerns faced by transgender community and gender-diverse individuals in Pakistan. The term ‘transgender’ refers to a marginalized group of people often denied adequate healthcare facilities due to social stigma and discrimination. Some of these health concerns may occur due to an exposure to gender minority stress. Gender minority stress is related to transgenders seeking precautionary healthcare less often than other people do. By employing a participatory design approach including focus groups and co-design workshops with transgenders and gender-diverse (TGD) community members, this study attempted to identify their specific health needs. In response to these challenges, the project proposed a comprehensive healthcare solution that includes both a specialized healthcare facility and a mobile app. This app would allow transgenders to access health forums, consult with doctors, receive tailored wellness advice, and schedule appointments, making healthcare more accessible and user-friendly for this vulnerable population. This combination of physical and digital healthcare support is designed to improve the overall health and well-being of transgenders in Pakistan.