When burnt, which fiber produces a smell similar to celery or wax?

The fiber that produces a smell similar to celery or wax when burnt is olefin. This characteristic odor arises from the way olefin, a synthetic fiber made from polypropylene or polyethylene, behaves under heat. The burning process releases specific compounds that create the distinctive smell, often likened to that of celery.

In contrast, nylon, when burned, emits a different odor that is typically described as resembling that of burning plastics or hair. Polyester also burns with a distinctive smell similar to that of sweet, chemical odors, which can differ significantly from the natural scent released by olefin. Wool, being a natural fiber, produces an odor often likened to burning hair or feathers due to its protein composition.

Understanding these distinctive properties is essential for carpet cleaning technicians to identify fibers correctly and respond appropriately to issues like melting or burning that could occur during the cleaning process or from external sources.