Synthetic Fibers Flashcards

Study Notes

Synthetic fibers are man-made polymers created from chemical compounds, categorized by their chemical composition.

Heat-sensitive and thermoplastic, impacting their durability under heat.
Uniformly structured under microscopic view; resembling glass rods with striations.
Hydrophobic nature results in low absorbency and water resistance.
Exhibits electrostatic properties, influencing cling and static buildup.
Highly resistant to abrasion and chemicals, including resistance to insects and fungi.
Tends to pill over time, affecting aesthetic appearance.
Oleophilic, showing a strong affinity for oils and grease.
Resilient and wrinkle-resistant, retaining shape after washing.
Generally, average to low specific gravity, making them lightweight.

Chemical formulations can be altered to enhance performance characteristics.
Cross-section design can mimic natural fibers, examples include micro-fibers.
Coloration occurs during fiber production, ensuring colorfastness.
Various finishing agents can be integrated in the solution, like flame retardants and moth repellents.
Fiber texture can be modified using crimping techniques.
Fiber length varies from continuous filament to staple length by cutting strands.

Blending can happen at different stages: fiber, yarn, fabric, and finishing.
Fiber stage includes creating bicomponent or matrix blends.
Yarn stage allows twisting multiple fibers into a single yarn.
Fabric stage can involve a mix of fibers in the warp and filling.
Finished products may see application of metallic pigments or selective fiber burnouts.

Developed by Dupont in 1939 as a synthetic long-chain polyamide fiber.
Melt-spun process utilized; forms include monofilament, multifilament, and staple fibers.
Production involves polymerization of chemicals and water, followed by melting and extruding nylon chips.

Commonly used in stockings, swimwear, bags, carpets, fishing lines, ropes, tents, and parachutes.

Machine washable and tumble dried at low temperature; fabric softener recommended to mitigate static cling.

Introduced by Dupont in 1953 as a long-chain polymer from petroleum derivatives.
Frequently texturized for bulk and volume; known as a chameleon fiber due to its versatility.
Wrinkle-resistant and available in both filament and staple lengths with some odor retention issues.

Low absorbency but resistant to stains and chemicals.
Exhibits poor dyeability and heat conductivity but can be heat set for form stability.

Machine washable and tumble dried at low temp; immediate removal from dryer prevents wrinkles.

Widely employed in wrinkle-free clothing, carpets, fiberfill stuffing, and various household fabrics.

Made from recycled polyester, such as soda bottles; quantity requirements demonstrate sustainability.
Examples include five bottles for a t-shirt and 200 bottles for sofa upholstery.

Developed in the 1950s by Dupont and Monsanto, derived from acrylonitrile and various chemicals.
Serves as a wool substitute but is highly flammable and generally produced in staple length.

Commonly found in ropes, shoelaces, coats, jackets, blazers, sweaters, and blankets.

A modified version of acrylic introduced in 1949, designed to be less flammable.
Commonly used as a wool substitute, especially in fire-resistant applications.

Utilized in fire resistant sleepwear, fake fur, wigs, carpets, and outdoor furniture textiles.

Developed by Hercules in 1961, consists of a long-chain polymer from propylene.
Lightweight with moisture-wicking capabilities but challenging to dye due to low melting point.