Different Types of Man Made Fibers with Their Application

Different Types of Man

Made Fibers

Textile fibers are either found in nature or made by man. Natural fibers are obtained
from plants, animals and minerals, while man made fibers are produced either purely
chemically (Synthetic fibers) or by modifying natural fibers by chemical means
(Regenerated fibres). The polymers used for the spinning of synthetic fibers are chemical
based, while regenerated fibers are derived from a natural polymer, most commonly
cellulose. In this article I will discuss about introduction, applications, advantages and
disadvantages of different man made fibers.

Fibers Description Applications Advantages Disadvantages

Acetate This type of fiber is The largest They are fast Disadvantages
and known as a volume drying are include poor
triacetate regenerated man application for resistant to abrasion
fibers made material. acetate fiber is moths and resistance,
Acetate is derived cigarette filters, mildew. susceptible to
from cellulose by but it is also Triacetate has attack by
reacting purified widely used in excellent household
cellulose from wood women’s wear. sunlight chemicals.
pulp with acetic acid The luxurious resistance but
and acetic anhydride fibers are acetate does

1
 in the presence of
available in a not. They are
sulfuric acid. Both
wide range of shrink-resistant
materials are heat
colors and and wrinkle-
resistant below their
lusters. resistant.
melting point.

Fibres Discription Applications Advantages Disadvantages

These fibers are Acrylic fibers

unique among can be artificial
They have a high
Acrylic and synthetic fibers wool because it
resistance to
modacrylic because they have has the warmth
chemical and
fibers an uneven surface. and softness of
biological
The fibers are wool but does
degradation as High heat can
formed by not absorb
well as melt the fabric.
additional water. It is
degradation from
polymerization of often used
sunlight. Acrylic
at least 85% by as cold weather
is lightweight
weight of fiber for
and strong.
acrylonitrile or blankets and
vinyl chanide. sweaters.

Fibres Description Applications Advantages Disadvantages

Aramid and Polyimide fiber is

polyimide spun from the Polyimide fabric is
These fibers
fibers polymer by wet or flame retardant
are lighter and
dry processing and can be used in
tougher than
techniques. This is high- temp
steel.
done using a polar applications.
organic solvent.

Fibres Description Applications Advantages

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 These fibers are strong, light,
and can be mixed with other
Carbon and materials. Carbon fiber
graphite technology converts carbon to
graphite to form tightly packed
fibers.
The material is used to
produce high-quality
devices such as golf-clubs
and fishing rods and can
be used for composites for
air crafts and autos.

Fibres Description Applications Advantages Disadvantages

It is an artificial fiber
made of polyamide
which contains
The fiber is
carbon, oxygen, Nylon can be
durable,
nitrogen, and used in carpet.
strong, resists
hydrogen. The High-filament
stains, hides Disadvantages
material is also nylon yarns are
soil, resists include: the fabric
resistant to wrinkling, often blended
mildew melts when
does not absorb with spandex
and bacteria, exposed to high
water, and it dries and used in
prevents heat, can be
quickly, athletic apparel,
static, and is uncomfortable to
Nylon Exceptionally strong, swimwear, and
resistant to wear next to skin,
Elastic, Lustrous, hosiery. nylon
abrasion. and absorbs oil
Easy to wash, products include
Resistant to damage luggage, and grease.
from oil and many carpeting Easy to dye,
chemicals,Can be materials and Can cause skin
precolored or dyed in hosiery because Resistant to deases
wide range of colors, of its elastic damage from oil
Resilient, Filament recovery ability. and many
yarns provide smooth, chemicals,
soft, long-lasting
fabrics.

Fibres Description Applications

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 They are cross linked natural and
synthetic rubbers, spandex fibers
(segmented polyurethanes),
anidex fibers (cross linked
The term elastomer is derived from
Elastomeric polyacrylates) and the side-by-
elastic polymer, which is also known
fibers side biconstituent fiber of nylon
as rubber.
and spandex. The fibers can
have elongations (400-800%) at
break and recover fully and
rapidly.

Fibres Description Applications

It is a high-performance material that

has high strength and durability. They are used in nonstick cook
Fluropolymer
Fluoropolymers are resistant to many and bake ware..
chemicals and high heat.

Fibres Description Applications Advantages Disadvantages

Spandex is a It is used when a

It is a soft
lightweight stretch fiber is
fabric that is
manufactured needed. Garments
resistant to
material that can be where comfort Ironing, if
abrasion and
stretched over 500% and fit are required, should
can resist
without breaking. desired: hosiery, be done rapidly.
body oils,
Spandex or Elastoester is a swimsuits, Do not leave the
perspiration
elastoester substitute for aerobic/exercise iron too long in
and
spandex. Stronger, wear, ski pants, one position. Use
detergents. It
more durable and golf jackets, low temperatures
does not have
higher retractive force disposable diaper, setting.
static or
than waist bands, bra
pilling
rubber,Lightweight, straps and bra side
problems.
soft, smooth, supple, panels,

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Fibres Description Applications Advantages Disadvantages

Polyolefin fibers
They are are resistant to Disadvantages
produced by stains, sunlight, include problems
The advantages
chain growth odor and with static and
of this material
polymerization of chemicals, pilling as well as a
include its
olefins (alkenes) mildew, rot, and low tolerance for
Polyolefin strength, ability
and contain weather. They high temperature
fibers to float,
greater than 85% are fast drying which tends to cause
lightness, and
polymerized and have a high swelling in the
resistance to
ethylene, wick-ability presence aromatic
abrasion.
propylene, or making them and chlorinated
other olefin units. useful for spill hydrocarbons.
cleanup.

Fibres Description Applications Advantages Disadvantages

Polyester The most important It is utilized in all It’s versatile Disadvantages

synthetic fiber. types of clothing, and has low include, melting
They contain at home furnishings, raw material when exposed to
least 85% of and as a and production high heat and it
polymericester of a reinforcing fiber costs. Polyester absorbs oils and
substituted aromatic in tires, belts, and is resistant to grease making it
carboxylic hoses. New abrasion, has difficult to clean.
acid including, but insulating the ability to It does attract
not restricted to, polyester fiberfill spring back static electricity,
terephthalic acid are used in high- into shape,
and f- performance does not absorb
hydroxybenzoic outdoor wear. water, and dries
acid. The quickly.
manufacturing
process uses melt-
spinning so the size
and shape can be
adjusted for specific

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 applications.

Fibres Description Applications Advantages Disadvantages

It is produced by
the formation of
Polyethylene High Molecular
an ester bond
fibers are used in Weight
between
police and Polyethylene
terephthalic acid
military ballistic (HMWP) is one
and ethylene
vests, helmets of the world’s
glycol. The
and armored strongest and
material floats,
vehicles, lightest fibers.
resists chemicals
sailcloth, fishing Polyethylene
Polyethylene and water, and
lines and lifting fiber is pound-
exhibits superior
slings, cut- for-pound 10 Bad affect on
fiber-to-fiber
resistant gloves, times stronger environment.
abrasion.
and a wide range than steel.
Polyethylene fibre
of safety Polyethylene is
has a round cross
apparel. Medical insoluble in
section and has a
implants, cable most of the
smooth surface.
& marine ropes, common
Fibres made from
sail cloth, fish organic
low molecular
net, useful solvents at
weight
in geotextile room
polyethylene have
application. temperature.
a grease like
handle.

Fibres Description Applications Advantages

Polypro- It is a vinyl polymer, Polypropylene is used for Improve toughness,

pylene similar to indoor-outdoor carpeting Provide excellent
polyethylene. The because it doesn’t absorb impact resistance,
structure has a methyl water. Reduce haze, Provide
group attached to every excellent organoleptics
other carbon in the

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 backbone chain.

Fibres Description Applications Advantages

It is a specialty fiber PPS can be used for

characterized with high home interior,
Reduce haze, Provide
resistance to thermal and automobile, filter bag
excellent
Polyphenylene chemical attack as well cloth for a coal-fired
organoleptics
sulfide (PPS) as resistance to heat, boiler, electrical
solvents, acids and insulation, and as filter
alkalis, mildew, UV material for liquid and
light, and abrasion. . gas.

Fibres Description Applications Advantages

These fibers have a

In everyday life, they are all
polyethylene hydrocarbon
Polyvinyl around us, from construction They do not
backbone with a
chloride profiles to medical devices, burn, and they
substituted functional
(PVC)/ from roofing membranes to resist many
group to determine the
Vinyl credit cards, from children’s chemicals.
physical and chemical
toys to pipes for water
properties of the fiber.

Fibres Description Applications Advantages

Latex Latex fabric derives from the Examples of latex It is resistant to light
latex fibre which comes from the products include and heat and is
milky or colourless sap of certain gloves, soles and waterproof.
plants. It can be mixed with other mattress pads.

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 fibres to make materials such as
spandex.

Fibres Description Applications Advantages Disadvantages

Application of
Vinyon is vinyon is limited
composed of because it dissolves
85% vinyl chloride easily in organic
Vinyon does not
solvents. Vinal
burn; the fabric
polymerize resembles cotton and The fibers
will melt at
Vinyon monomer units. high strength have a high
relatively low
fiber or Vinal fibers are at and abrasion chemical
temperatures. and
Vinal least 50% vinyl resistance making it resistance.
dissolve readily in
alcohol units in useful in many They are also
many organic
which at least 85% applications. The resistant to
solvents, thereby
of the units are fiber is of low water.
limiting their
combined vinyl strength but has
application.
alcohol and acetyl properties that make
cross linked units. it useful in apparel
where heat is not a
factor.

Fibres Description Applications Advantages Disadvantages

Rayon Rayon is a semi- Rayon is used in Rayon typically A disadvantage

synthetic or fashion, furnishings,has an elevated is that is loses
artificial fiber. sanitary products, luster quality 30-50% of its
Rayon is diapers, and medical giving it a brilliant strength when
recognized by the supplies. gloss Rayon is wet, has poor
name viscose very soft, cool resistance to
rayon and art silk Mainly, Rayon fibres comfortable and abrasion,
in the textile are used in apparel very good expensive, and
industry.This industry such as absorbent property stretches and
includes textile Aloha shirts, but could not be shrinks more
fibers and blouses, dresses, able to protect than cotton.

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 filaments
composed of
regenerated Jackets, Lingerie,
cellulose, scarves, suits, ties,
excluding acetate. hats and socks. Some
It is produced rayon fibres are for Usual rayon
from naturally filling in Zippo body heat and fibres
occurring lighters, furnishings used in humid recommended
polymers. The including steamy climatic care for dry
fiber is sold as bedspreads, conditions. cleaning purpose
artificial silk and it bedsheets, blankets, only.
has a serrated window covers,
round shape with a upholstery and
smooth surface. slipcovers.

Synthetic Fibers: Classification, Properties and

Applications

Introduction:
The synthetic fibers are result of the extensive research to improve the properties of
naturally occurring animal and vegetable fibers. These synthetic fibers are produced by
the extrusion of a polymeric material having synthetic origin through spinneret into air or
water. This fiber forming polymers are obtained generally from petro chemicals. Therefore,
these fibers are called synthetic fibers. These fibers are also called artificial fibers in textiles.

There are different types of synthetic fibers that have been brought into recent research
networks with respect to their remarkable properties. There are a variety of
contemporary fabrics such as weave cotton, velvet, printed cotton, calico, felt,
satin, silk, Hessian, polycotton. All synthetic textiles are used primarily in the
production of clothing.

Polyester fiber is used in all types of clothing, either alone or blended with fibers such as
cotton.

Aramid fiber (e.g., Twaron) is used for flame-retardant clothing, cut-protection, and
armor.

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Acrylic is a fiber used to imitate wools, including cashmere, and is often used in
replacement of them.

Nylon is a fiber used to imitate silk; it is used in the production of pantyhose. Thicker
nylon fibers are used in rope and outdoor clothing.

Spandex (trade name Lycra) is a polyurethane fiber that stretches easily and can be
made tight-fitting without impeding movement. It is used to make active wear and
swimsuits.

Olefin fiber is a fiber used in active wear, linings, and warm clothing. Olefins are
hydrophobic, allowing them to dry quickly. A sintered felt of olefin fibers is sold under the
trade name Tyvek.

Ingeo is a polylactide fiber blended with other fibers such as cotton and used in clothing. It
is more hydrophilic than most other synthetics, allowing it to wick away perspiration.
Lurex is a metallic fiber used in clothing embellishment.

Types / Classification of Synthetic Fibers:

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Classification of synthetic fibers

1. Synthetic Fibers from Natural Polymers:

1.1 Acetate Fiber:

Cellulose acetate is a natural-based man made fiber with unique properties that enable
the creation of beautiful, functional, and comfortable fabrics, whether used alone or in
combination with other natural, artificial, or synthetic yarns or fibers. The textile industry
used acetate yarns for the first time in the early 20th century. Since then, acetate yarns have
grown in popularity across the board in the fashion industry. Today, acetate yarns are still
used extensively in weaving and knitting. Because of the properties of acetate yarns, they
can be used to meet the needs of both mass-market items, such as linings, and high-end
fabrics in more demanding markets “niche” products.

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 Acetate Fibers

Physical properties of acetate fiber:

 Tenacity: 9.7-11.5 cN/tex

 Elongation: (wet) 35-45 %, (dry) 23-30%
 Elastic recovery: 48-60 %
 Specific gravity: 1.30
 Melting point: 232oC
 Moisture regain: 6.5 %

Application of acetate fiber:

i. Clothing: Like formal wear, nightgowns, coats, accessories for Japanese dresses,
neckties, blouses, sweaters, scarves etc.
ii. Home furnishing: Like blankets, bedclothes, fabrics for curtains etc.
iii. Other uses: Like umbrellas, cigarette filters, etc.

1.2 Triacetate Fiber:

Cellulose triacetate is a synthetic fiber made from cellulose. Schutzenberger was the first to
discover cellulose triacetate in 1865. This early acetate, on the other hand, was a tough, hard
plastic that contained a lot of acids and could only be dissolved in expensive chlorinated
solvents. Thus, until the mid-1950s, when more cost-effective solvents became available,
cellulose triacetate was not commercially viable. Triacetate is a strong, wrinkle-resistant
fiber that also resists stains, chemicals, sunlight, insects, and moisture. It should not be dry-
cleaned, but normal laundering will not harm it. It dries quickly in air or cool dryers and
keeps its shape without needing to be ironed. Triacetate is a firm, crisp fabric commonly

12
used in taffetas and suiting. Drip-dry clothing, tablecloths, skirts, and slacks are all made
with it. It’s commonly used to improve the wash ability and crease retention of wool blends.

Physical properties of triacetate fiber:

 Soluble in chloroform, methylene chloride, m-cresol, 90% phenol

 Insoluble in acetone
 Unaffected by dilute acids, alkalis and bleaches
 Cross section is bulbous; fiber has longitudinal striations
 Tenacity = 1.1-1.4 g/denier (dry); 0.7-0.8 g/denier (wet)
 Elongation = 25-35% (dry); 30-40% (wet)
 Moisture regain = 2.5-3.5%
 Melting Point = 3000 C
 Density = 1.32 gm/cc

Uses of triacetate fiber:

Triacetate is found in underwear and lingerie warp knit garments that keep their shape, as
well as woven and knitted fabrics that do not shrink or cockle. Triacetate is blended with
cotton and viscose to produce cloths that are completely stable and form permanent pleats,
and it is used with wool to confer its non-shrink characteristics on the blend. When blended
with viscose rayon staple or cotton, the permanent pleating effects obtainable in triacetate
fabrics are of particular interest for applications such as skirts and slacks. Triacetate is
blended with wool to create fabrics that combine the warmth of wool with the heat setting
and drip dry properties of triacetate.

1.4 Viscose Fiber:

Among all the fibers, rayon, also known as viscose or viscose rayon, is probably the most
permeable to customers. Cotton-like end uses, as well as sumptuous velvets and taffetas, can
all be found with it. It can be used in absorbent hygiene and incontinence pads, as well as
tyre cords, to provide strength. Rayon is made from wood pulp, which is a relatively
inexpensive and renewable resource, but its processing uses a lot of water and energy, and it
pollutes the air and water. The availability of raw materials, combined with the
modernization of manufacturing plants and processes, has increased rayon’s
competitiveness in the market.

Physical properties of viscose fiber:

 Tenacity: 2.4 -3.2 gm/den

 Density: 1.64 – 1.54 gm/cc
 Elongation at break: 13%
 Elasticity: Good
 Moisture Regain (MR %): 11 – 13%
 Melting point: This fiber becomes weak when it heated above 150°C.
 Ability to protest friction: Less
 Color: White.

Uses of viscose fiber:

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 i. Yarns: Embroidery thread, chenille, cord, novelty yarns.
ii. Fabrics: Crepe, gabardine, suiting, lace, outerwear fabrics and lining for fur coats and
outerwear.
iii. Apparel: Blouses, dresses, saris, jackets, lingerie, linings, millinery (hats), slacks, sport
shirts, sportswear, suits, ties, work clothes.
iv. Domestic textiles: Bedspreads, blankets, curtains, draperies, sheets, slip covers,
tablecloths, and upholstery.
v. Industrial textiles: High tenacity rayon is used as reinforcement to mechanical
rubber goods (tires, conveyor belts, and hoses), applications within the aerospace,
agricultural and textile industries, braided cord, tape.

1.5 Modal Fiber:

Modal is a fiber that has been regenerated. It is a rayon fiber of the next generation. This
fiber is made from “beech tree” wood chips (European Schneider Zelkova tree). It’s a “high
wet modulus fiber” made with a modified viscose process and modified precipitating baths.
Wet strength of modal fibers is higher than that of standard viscose fibers. It is abrasion
resistant while remaining soft to the touch. It’s also a good draping fabric. Improved fiber
properties include better wear, higher dry and wet strengths, and better dimensional
stability as a result of this process. Modified cellulose from beech trees is used in the modal
fiber.

Physical properties of modal fiber:

 Specific gravity: 1.53 grams/cc

 Tenacity: 22-40 grams/denier (dry)3.8-50 grams/denier (wet))
 Moisture Regain: 11.8%
 Elongation at Break: 7% (dry), 8.5% (wet)

Uses of modal fiber:

Modal fiber is used to get comfort and aesthetics, lustre, sheen, shine and naturality. Modal
fiber is used to make following products:

 T-Shirts.
 Socks.
 Sport wear.
 Bed sheets.
 Underwear.
 Towels and Bathrobes.

1.6 Cupro Fiber:

Cellulose will dissolve in a mixed solution of copper salts and ammonia, called
cuprammonium liquor, and regenerated cellulose fibers are produced by extrusion of this
solution into a coagulating bath. The yarn produced by the cuprammonium process consists
of regenerated cellulose; it is now widely known by the name of cupro.

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 Cupro Fibers

Physical properties of cupro fiber:

 Tenacity = 15-20 cN/tex (1.7-2.3 g/den) dry; 9.7-11.9 cN/tex (1.1-1.35 g/den) wet.
 Tensile strength = 2100-3150 kg/cm² (30,000-40,000 lb. /in²).
 Elongation = 10-17% (dry) and 17-33% (wet)
 Elastic recovery = 20-75%
 Specific Gravity = 1.54
 Moisture regain = 12.5 per cent under standard conditions.
 Decomposition temperature = 250°C

Uses of cupro fiber:

Cupro is used to create chiffons, satins, nets, ninons, and other sheer fabrics. A
large portion of this yarn is used in underwear, dress fabrics, and linings. Slub
yarn, for example, are used in a wide range of applications, particularly as weft. Dress
fabrics, sportswear, and fine drapery fabrics all use slub yarns. The production of yarn-dyed
fabrics for high-quality silk-like linings, dress, and upholstery fabrics is a specialty end use.
Reel spun yarns are ideal for these applications because they are produced in skeins that are
ready to dye in the untwisted state. The dyed yarn is used for both the weft and the warp,
untwisted for the weft and twisted for the warp.

1.7 Rubber:
Rubber is a natural polymer made from the coagulation of latex produced by certain plant
species, most notably the rubber tree Hevea brasiliensis, which grows in tropical climates.
Rubber is a tough, elastic material that softens and becomes plastic and dough-like when
heated. Rubber is kneaded and mixed in powerful mills during processing. This softens the
rubber, making it more thermoplastic and destroying the raw polymer’s elasticity. At the

15
 same time, milling allows other materials, such as sulphur, to be mixed into the rubber,
which is used in the subsequent vulcanization or curing process.

Physical properties of rubber:

 Tensile Strength: 385 kg/cm2 (5500 lb. /in2).

 Tenacity: 4.0 cN/tex (0.45 g/den) (cf. spandex: 6.2 cN/tex (0.7 g/den).
 Elongation: 700-900 per cent (cf. spandex: 700-800 per cent).
 Elastic Recovery: 100%.

Applications of rubber:

i. Corsetry
ii. Swimwear
iii. Footwear
iv. Surgical hosiery
v. Men’s and children’s hosiery, underwear and outerwear

2. Synthetic Fibers from Synthetic Polymers:

2.1 Aramid

2.1.1 Kevlar
Kevlar is a manmade fiber, it as an organic fiber in aromatic polyamide family. The unique
properties and distinct chemical composition of wholly aromatic polyamides (aramids)
distinguish them from other man-made fiber. Kevlar fiber has a unique combination of
high strength, high modulus, toughness and thermal stability. It was developed for
demanding industrial and advanced-technology applications. Currently, many types of
Kevlar are produced to meet a broad range of end users.

Application of kevlar fiber:

i. Vehicle armor
ii. Marine Composites
iii. Armor system
iv. Brake pads
v. Gaskets

2.1.2 Nomex Fiber:

DuPont developed Nomex, a flame-resistant meta-aramid material, in the early 1960s, and
it was first commercialized in 1967. Nomex is made from the monomers m-
phenylenediamine and isophthaloyl chloride in a condensation reaction. It’s available in
both fiber and sheet form, and it’s used as a fabric where heat and flame resistance are
required. Nomex sheet is a calendered paper that is made in the same way. The first Nomex
paper was developed, and it was one of the higher volume grades produced, primarily for
electrical insulation. The fiber Nomex is produced in the United States.

16
 Fig:
Nomex Fibers

Physical properties of nomex:

 Tenacity = 2.5 – 5.5 gpd

 Breaking elongation = 20 – 35%
 Density = 1.8 g/cc
 Initial modulus = 80 – 90 gpd
 Melting point = 350
 LOI = 25 -30

Applications of nomex fiber:

i. Sandwich Panel applications.

ii. Aircraft flooring – Varying densities depending on level of duty
iii. Aircraft interiors – ranging from side walls galleys and ceilings, including Commercial
aerospace, business to interiors.
iv. Cargo lining, Helicopter rotor blades. Aircraft leading and trailing edges, fuselage
components.
v. Nomex is used in Gloves, nomex hood, drivers protection, driving shoes, protective
Sacks firefighter protection, filtering material, momex composites.

2.2 Polyester Fiber:

Polyester fiber is produced from poly (ethylene terephthalate) i.e. PET polymer. Polyester
fiber is one of the most important among synthetic fibers. The molecular weight of PET
polymer used for the preparation of polyester is in the range of 20,000-40,000. The raw
materials for the preparation of polyester are dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) or terephthalic
acid (TPA) and mono-ethylene glycol (MEG). Most of the earlier plants were based on DMT
as raw material since high purity TPA required for polymerization was not available.
However, methods for preparing purified TPA are now available and TPA is increasingly
used as raw material for the production of polyester.

Physical properties of polyester fiber:

17
 Uses of polyester fiber:

i. It is used for making sweaters and tracksuits and also for the linings of boots and
gloves.
ii. It is also used in making furnishing fabrics and carpets.
iii. It can also be used to make fur and many different knitted clothes.

2.3 Polyamides:
Polyamides are polymers which contain recurring amide groups as integral parts of the
main polymer chains. Naturally, polyamides include the protein fibers, e.g. Silk and Wool.
Synthetic Polyamide fiber form one of the most important of all classes of textile fiber,
which we known generally as “Nylon”. Synthetic polyamides are made by a condensation
reaction.

Nylon 66 and nylon 6 are two important members of a group of polymers known as
polyamides. The structural units of a polyamide are joined together by an amide, -NH-CO-,
group. A polyamide manufactured from aliphatic monomer(s) is commonly designated as
nylon. However, the US Federal Trade Commission has denied nylon as a manufactured
fiber in which the fiber-forming substance is a long-chain synthetic polyamide in which less
than 85% of the amide linkages are attached directly to two aromatic rings, while a
polyamide in which at least 85% of the amide links are joined to two aromatic groups is
known as an aramid.

Uses of polyamides fiber:

i. Synthetic polyamides are commonly used in textiles,

ii. Automotive Industry,
iii. Carpets,
iv. Kitchen Utensils
v. Sportswear
vi. Due to their high durability and strength.
vii. The transportation manufacturing industry is the major consumer, accounting for 35%
of polyamide (PA) consumption.

2.4 Acrylic Fiber:

Next to polyester and polyamides, acrylic fibers occupy an eminent position in the family
of synthetic fibers. The importance of acrylic fibers has been shown by their phenomenal
growth and their popularity throughout the world. Acrylic fibers have replaced wool in
many major applications, particularly in hand knitting and hosiery garments. Blankets and
carpets are other applications where acrylic fiber competes with wool because of its high
elasticity, color brilliancy voluminosity, ease of washing, resistance to pilling and good light
and color fastness. Acrylic fibers have experienced a tremendous growth since their
introduction by Du Pont, USA, in 1950. Acrylic fibers are made using acrylonitrile as one of
the major monomers.

2.5 Modacrylic Fiber:

Modacrylics are synthetic copolymer fibers containing less than 85% but at least 35%
acrylonitrile by weight. Vinyon N is a modacrylic fiber based on 60% vinyl chloride and 40%

18
 acrylonitrile. The staple fiber is known as Dynel. Taklan is another fiber produced from
acrylonitrile-vinylidine copolymer. Basic properties are built into modacrylics during the
fiber forming process. The processing variables particularly in the after-treatment following
spinning are major factors in determining modacrylic properties.

Physical properties of acrylic and modacrylic fiber:

Uses of acrylic and modacrylic fiber:

The most successful fake furs are made from modacrylic and acrylic fibers, which are widely
used in hairpieces and doll hair. Both fibers are useful for outdoor applications such as
awnings due to their superior sunlight resistance, with modacrylics providing additional
flame resistance. Despite the low softening temperature, modacrylics’ low flammability
provides a measure of safety; end uses based on this property include airline blankets and
military sweaters. Acrylic fibers are used as raw materials in the manufacture of carbon
(graphite) fibers.

2.5 Polyethylene Fiber:

Chemically polyethylene (PE) is the simplest polymer as the repeating unit of the polymer
is ethylene (-CH₂-CH-). However, because of the tetravalent carbon atom, the structure can
be linear structure or a branched structure.

Physical properties of polyethylene fiber:

Uses of polyethylene fiber:

i. Medical implants
ii. Cable and marine ropes
iii. Sail cloth
iv. Composites like Pressure vessel boat hulls, sports equipment, impact shields
v. Fish netting
vi. Concrete reinforcement
vii. Protective clothing
viii. Can be used in radar protective cover because of its low dielectric constant
ix. Can be used as a lining material of a pond which collects evaporation of water and
containment from industrial plants

2.6 Polypropylene Fiber:

Polypropylene is produced by the polymerisation of propylene using a catalyst in solution,
mass or gas phase. For the polymer, propylene monomer is polymerised to make
polypropylene. The reaction is initiated when a propylene molecule is added to an
organometallic active centre (M R). Propagation occurs by adding monomer at the active
organometallic centre. The reaction terminates either by monomer transfer, metal alkyl
transfer or by hydride ion transfer, along with realkylation of the catalyst.

Physical properties of polypropylene fiber:

Uses of polypropylene fiber:

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 i. Industrial pavements.
ii. Highly resistant concrete. Industrial grounds.
iii. Tunnels.
iv. Roads.
v. Special mortars.
vi. Precast concrete.

3. Synthetic Fibers from Inorganic Fibers:

3.1 Boron Fiber:

Boron fiber is made by chemical vapor deposition in single-filament reactors and has a
unique combination of high compression strength, high modulus, and large diameter. When
compared to carbon fiber-based composites, it has better compression properties.
Elemental boron is produced in diameters of 4.0 mil (102-micron) and 5.6 mil (102-micron)
on a fine tungsten wire substrate (142-micron). Amorphous boron with a fully borided-
tungsten core is the result.

Fig: Boron Fiber

Physical properties of boron fiber:

 Tensile Strength = 520 ksi (3600 MPa)

 Tensile Modulus = 58 msi (400 GPa)
 Compression Strength = ~1000 ksi (6900 MPa)
 Coefficient of Thermal Expansion = 2.5 PPM/°F (4.5 PPM/°C)
 Density = 0.093 lb./in³ (2.57 g/cm³)

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 Uses of boron fiber:
A common use of boron fibers is in the construction of high tensile strength tapes. Boron
fiber use results in high-strength, lightweight materials that are used chiefly for advanced
aerospace structures as a component of composite materials, as well as limited production
consumer and sporting goods such as golf clubs and fishing rods.

One of the uses of boron fiber composites was the horizontal tail surfaces of the F-14 Tomcat
fighter. This was done as carbon fiber composites were not yet developed to the point they
could be used, as they were in many of aircraft designs since.

3.2 Glass Fiber:

Bundle of glass fibers Glassmakers throughout history have experimented with glass fibers,
but mass manufacture of glass fiber was only made possible with the invention of finer
machine tooling. In 1893, Edward Drummond Libbey exhibited a dress at the World’s
Columbian Exposition incorporating glass fibers with the diameter and texture of silk
fiber.

Types and forms of fiberglass:

Depending on the raw materials used and their proportions to make
fiberglass, fiberglass can be classified into following major types:

 A-glass: A glass is also called as alkali glass and is resistant to chemicals. Due to the
composition of A glass fiber, it is close to window glass. In some parts of the world, it is
used to make process equipment.
 C-glass: C-glass offers very good resistance to chemical impact and is also called as
chemical glass.
 E-glass: It is also called as electrical glass and is a very good insulator of electricity.
 AE-glass: This is alkali resistant glass.
 S glass: It is also called as structural glass and is known for its mechanical properties.

Uses of glass fiber:

i. Beverage industry
ii. Car washes
iii. Chemical industry
iv. Cooling towers
v. Docks and marinas
vi. Food processing
vii. Fountains and aquariums
viii. Manufacturing
ix. Metals and mining
x. Power generation
xi. Plating plants
xii. Pulp and paper industry
xiii. Automotive industry
xiv. Aerospace and Defense

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 3.3 Carbon Fiber:
Carbon fibers (alternatively CF, graphite fiber or graphite fiber) are fibers about 5 to 10
micrometers (0.00020–0.00039 in) in diameter and composed mostly of carbon atoms.
Carbon fibers have several advantages including high stiffness, high tensile strength, and
low weight to strength ratio, high chemical resistance, high temperature tolerance and low
thermal expansion. These properties have made carbon fiber very popular in aerospace,
civil engineering, military, and motorsports, along with other competition sports. However,
they are relatively expensive when compared with similar fibers, such as glass fiber, basalt
fibers, or plastic fibers.

Physical properties of carbon fiber:

 Tenacity = 1.7 – 1.85 mpa

 Density = 1.75 – 1.96 gm/cc
 Elongation break = 0.3 – 1.8%
 Moisture regain = 0%
 Melting point = 3650-3700°C
 Glass transition temp = 250°C.
 LOI = 18.3 – 31.5%

Uses of carbon fiber:

i. Aeronautical industry
ii. Automobile industry
iii. Sports industry
iv. Civil Engineering
v. Medical field
vi. Power plant
vii. Audio equipment
viii. Prosthetic surgery
ix. Textile machinery
x. Other uses like missiles, aircrafts, antenna, telescope etc.

3.4 Ceramic Fiber:

Ceramic Fiber is a man-made synthetic fiber produced from small-dimension filament
composed of high purity aluminosilicate materials. It also known as ‘Ceramic Wool’ or
“refractory material”. Cause it has a heat-resistant property white and odorless substance.

Physical properties of ceramic fiber:

 Tenacity = 3 gpa
 Density = 3.9 gm/cc
 Melting point = 1790 degree Celsius
 Initial modulus = 210 gpa

Uses of carbon fiber:

i. High temperature insulation seals and gaskets.

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 ii. Thermal shield.
iii. Fire barrier.
iv. Fire Retardant Fabric.
v. Protective blankets, and wrapping.
vi. Expansion joint fabric, safety clothing.
vii. Electrical insulation.
viii. Composite reinforcement.
ix. Sealing and insulation

4. Advantages and Disadvantages of Synthetic Fibers

Advantages:

1. Long lasting
2. Readily pick-up to various dyes
3. Stretchable
4. Waterproofing
5. Non biodegradability
6. Moisture resistance
7. Strain and wear resistance

Disadvantages:

1. Flammable
2. Prone to heat damage
3. Melt easily
4. Not eco-friendly
5. Cause for microplastic pollution
6. Not suitable for hot washing
7. Poor insulation capacity

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