Xierea (x·eye·ree)

A tough but flexible material that is oftentimes twisted and spun to make stretchy ropes. Though it acts and feels like elastic, it is made of a type of mineral found in clay found in northern Terramis and southern Dessiara.

Properties

Material Characteristics

Xierea possesses a near-clear color, allowing light to pass through it. This makes it aesthetically pleasing and potentially useful for decorative purposes. It is naturally small and rounded, like tiny silica, and soft to the touch.

Physical & Chemical Properties

Xierea boasts exceptional tensile strength, making it ideal for ropes and other load-bearing applications. It can withstand significant strain without breaking or losing its shape. Despite its strength, xierea is surprisingly pliable. It can be easily twisted and manipulated into various forms, allowing for intricate rope weaving and crafting. While not possessing exact elastic properties, xierea exhibits a remarkable ability to stretch and return to its original shape. This makes it ideal for shock absorption and energy storage applications. Additionally, xierea is highly resistant to wear and tear, even under harsh conditions. It can withstand exposure to sunlight, water, and extreme temperatures without significant degradation.

History & Usage

Everyday use

Xierea's strength and elasticity make it the ideal material for crafting strong, durable ropes and cordage used for various purposes like climbing, fishing, and anchoring. Due to its flexibility and translucency, Xierea can be woven into delicate fabrics for clothing, especially for special occasions or ceremonial attire. Xierea's shock absorption properties make it suitable for crafting sports equipment like bowstrings, fishing lines, and athletic wear. Xierea's durability and resistance to wear and tear make it a valuable material for construction applications like suspension bridges, cables, and reinforcement materials.

Refinement

Extracting Xierea requires meticulous sifting of clay in running water to remove impurities. This process is laborious and time-consuming, highlighting the value of the material. Once extracted, the purified mineral is twisted and spun into thin fibers. This process requires skilled artisans who can manipulate the material to achieve the desired texture and elasticity. Xierea can be blended with other natural or synthetic fibers to enhance its properties or create unique textures. For example, blending with cotton could increase its breathability, while blending with nylon could enhance its strength.