The invention of synthetic fabric changed the textile industry. Their
properties differed from the properties of natural fabrics. It seamed
like miracle. It was made from chemicals and still it was superior to
those found in nature. Take an example of rayon, discovered in early
1900s and it became artificial silk.
These fabrics are made from fibers which are either completely made
from inorganic materials or organic materials combined with chemicals.
Synthetic fabrics have numerous properties with the purpose for which it
is produced and finished. Some are lightweight with ultra sheer while
others are moisture wicking and fast drying. Few are very luxurious to
imitate some other natural fabrics and some are very strong and tough.
Many synthetic fabrics have found their way into trendy fashion
garments. These fabrics come in brighter colors and are more economical.
In industrial uses, synthetic fabrics have taken its place. They have
replaced traditional materials from super-absorbent diapers to
artificial organs. Engineered non-woven fabrics are also found in
surgical applications like gowns and apparel interfacing.
Man made fibers for fabrics were first experimented in the late 1800s.
Du Pont, a chemist, discovered laboratory-synthesized fiber, nylon. He
transformed common materials like coal, air, and water into fibers whose
qualities were far better than natural fibers.
Types of Synthetic Fabrics
Acetate Fabric - It is an
imitation of silk and can withstand mildew, pilling and shrinking. |
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Acrylic Fabric - It is an
imitation of wool and is resistant to wearing, wrinkling, soiling,
and fading. |
Nylon Fabric - It is the
strongest upholstery fabric and it does not soil, or wrinkle. |
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Latex Fabric - It has high
waterproofing and dry cleaning property. It is resistant to heat and
light. |
Polyester Fabric - It
is used for upholstery and is blended with other fibers to add
wrinkle resistant. It eliminates crushing of napped fabrics and
reduce fading. |
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Rayon Fabric - It imitates
silk, linen, and cotton and is durable. |
Spandex Fabric - It is
known for its shape retention quality and is resistant to dry heat
and oil. It is lightweight with comfort and flexibility. |
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