Which material is NOT absorbent?

Which material is NOT absorbent?

• A. Wool
• B. Cotton
• C. Rayon
• D. Polyester

Answer: (D)

Understanding absorbency in fabrics comes down to how strongly a material interacts with water. Natural fibers like cotton are cellulose and have many hydroxyl groups that attract and hold water, so they absorb moisture well. Rayon, also cellulose-based, behaves similarly and remains fairly absorbent. Wool, a protein fiber, contains polar groups and scales that trap water, giving it good moisture absorption too. In contrast, polyester is a synthetic polymer with a nonpolar backbone, making it hydrophobic. It resists soaking up water and tends to wick moisture away or dry quickly rather than absorbing and retaining it. Therefore, the material that is NOT absorbent is polyester.

Understanding absorbency in fabrics comes down to how strongly a material interacts with water. Natural fibers like cotton are cellulose and have many hydroxyl groups that attract and hold water, so they absorb moisture well. Rayon, also cellulose-based, behaves similarly and remains fairly absorbent. Wool, a protein fiber, contains polar groups and scales that trap water, giving it good moisture absorption too. In contrast, polyester is a synthetic polymer with a nonpolar backbone, making it hydrophobic. It resists soaking up water and tends to wick moisture away or dry quickly rather than absorbing and retaining it. Therefore, the material that is NOT absorbent is polyester.