Definition of Synthetic Fibers
Miscellanea / / July 04, 2021
By Florencia Ucha, in Nov. 2015
Synthetic fibers are a type of fiber textile that is obtained from different products derived from petroleum, that is, this type of fiber is totally chemical because the synthesis of its raw material as well as the production The yarn is produced by men and does not come directly, or in part, from the natural environment, as do natural fibers and man-made fibers. For example, it is important to mark that the synthetic fiber is not artificial, although many times they are called interchangeably.
Main uses: clothing and industrial
These fibers are used for manufacturing of clothing and also has an industrial use being used in the manufacture of elements such as parachutes and sails for boats.
Features: stiffness, long life
Among the salient and distinctive characteristics of these fibers are their strength, endurance, long-term duration, simplicity in terms of care, they provide heat in summer and cold in the winter, the latter being an unfavorable condition when it comes to clothing.
Most popular synthetic fibers
There is a variety of fibers of this type: polyamides, being its recognized exponent nylon and they are characterized by being very resistant and elastic. The main disadvantages are that they deform with the heat that penetrates them and in sensitive skin they can generate allergies. It is normally applied for the manufacture of sportswear and swimwear.
Polyester (tergal) is also widely used at the behest of sportswear. It is very resistant as well and its cost is certainly low.
Acrylics (leacril) stand out for their resistance to inclement weather and the direct action of light. They are used in knitwear or yarns that are woven manually.
On the other hand, the polyvinylics (Rhovil), resist very well to chemical agents and that is why they are the most demanded to manufacture textile equipment with technical applications.
In the case of polyethylene, such as saran, they are very solid and that makes them used for upholstery products such as carpets and carpets.
And elastane like dorlastan is also used to make sportswear, lingerie, and swimwear.
Photos: iStock - deepblue4you / gilaxia
Topics in Synthetic Fibers