Textile: Synthetic Fibers

Rayon

It is the first synthetic fiber; derived from the pithy sections of plant stalks, and in refining , remains almost pure cellulose. It is called the "poor man's silk" or "artificial silk". It blends well with other fabrics.

Acetate

It is a compound of cellulose acetate developed by the Celanese Corp. in 1924. It is heat-treated against wrinkling, washable, fast-drying, and does not shrink. It has a luxurious hand, and is woven into expensive textiles but is easily damaged because it is thermoplastic.

Tri-acetate

An almost pure cellulose fiber with greater stability, shrinkage and abrasion resistance developed by Celanese Corp in 1954; maintains a crisp finish upon which permanent pleats can be set; used for textured knits and tricots.

Nylon

Considered strongest of all fibers, it is highly elastic with good elongation, does not absorb oil, and air-borne dirt. Deteriorates when exposed to sunlight. It was developed by E.I. Dupont de Nemours and Co. in 1939.

Acrylic

It uses staple fibers crimped before cutting and then bulked for an insulative, wool-like effect. It is durable, mildew and moth-proof and is usually knitted into pile fabrics such as fake fur. Developed by Dupont Co. in 1850 under trade name Orion.

Modacrylic

Synthetic copolymer; soft, strong, resilient and dimensionally stable. Fibers are easily dyed; washable and are drip-dry. Flame-resistant used for draperies and casement cloths.

Olefins

Relatively inexpensive and very popular for use in carpet fiber for its outstanding resistance to stains and crushing and its lack of static generation. It is one of the lightest synthetic fibers.

Polypropylene

Most widely used olefin fiber today. Takes the fourth spot behind the big three synthetic fibers (polyester, nylon, acrylic). The bulk of the fiber produced is used for industrial applications.

Polyethylene

The first olefin fiber to reach commercial importance; used as upholster for airplane seats for many years.

Polyester

Du Pont's discovery led to the invention of this fiber. It is commonly blended with other fibers to enhance their performance. Its trade name is Dacron.

Glass Fiber

It is inherently resistant to flame, strong, does not absorb moisture, and has low abrasion resistance. Best used as casement cloth or drapery. It allows flexibility of weave.

Polynude Nylon

Chemical fiber with make-up similar to nylon. This fiber outperforms existing synthetics in washability, wrinkle resistance and ease of care. It does not shrink, it resembles silk in luster, weight, color, feel and drapability but can be ironed at high heat like cotton.

Saran

Used for outdoor furniture upholstery and screening. Used in curtains, drapery fabrics and wall covering. Unaffected by sunlight, wrinkle-resistant, and is usually blended with rayon and modacrylic.

Spandex

A manufactured elastomeric fiber that can be repeatedly stretched over 500% without breaking and will still recover to its original length. Popular trade name is Lycra.

Nomex

Trade name of aramid that is a high temperature resistant fiber used mostly in apparel such as firefighter clothing and space suits.

Kevlar

Trade name of aramid; high temperature resistant fiber and is incredibly strong, stronger than comparably sized steel. It is used as a barrier fabric between the upholstery cushion and fabric seating. Also used in bullet resistant vests.

Microfibers

A very fine synthetic fiber, smaller than the diameter of a single strand of silk. Commonly made from polyester and polyamides.