Synthetic Fibres: Definition, Concepts, Types and Examples

Synthetic Fibres are man-made fibres. Such fibres are made through chemical synthesis. Furthermore, they are made up of synthesised polymers of small molecules. We make fabrics from fibres. Synthetic or artificial fibres have their applications in every field of fibre and textile technology. Some examples of synthetic fibres are nylon, polyester, acrylic and polyolefin. These four artificial fibres are used in approximately 98% of synthetic fibre production; polyester alone takes 60%. Continue to read on to find out what is synthetic fibre and its types, applications, advantages, and disadvantages.

What is Synthetic Fibre?

As we know, natural fibres are directly obtained from living organisms, such as plants like cotton and fur from animals. In contrast, synthetic fibres are made from synthesised polymers of small molecules. These fibres are the result of extensive research that scientists performed to replicate natural plant and animal fibres.

We use raw materials such as petroleum-based chemicals or petrochemicals as compounds to make these fibres. Moreover, we polymerised these materials into a chemical that bonds two adjacent carbon atoms. By using different chemical compounds, we can produce different types of synthetic fibres. Examples include nylon, acrylic, polyester, polyolefin, polyurethane leather, etc.

History of Synthetic Fibres

In the early 1880s, Joseph Swan invented one of the first artificial fibres. His invention, cellulose liquid, was formed by chemically modifying the fibre contained in tree bark. The process to develop the artificial fibre was chemically similar to the carbon filament that Joseph Swan developed for his incandescent light bulb.

Later, Swan realised the potential of fibre to revolutionise textile manufacturing. Then, in 1885, he revealed fabrics that were manufactured from his synthetic material at the International Inventions Exhibition in London. Later, a French engineer and industrialist, Hilaire de Chardonnet, invented the first artificial silk. He called his artificial silk ‘Chardonnet silk’.

Difference Between Synthetic Fibres and Natural Fibres

Students can check the difference between natural fibres and synthetic/artificial fibres from the table below:

Types of Synthetic Fibres

Different chemical compounds can be used to produce different types of artificial fibres. Students can learn about different types and characteristics of synthetic fibres below:

Rayon

Rayon is also known as artificial silk. The raw material used in making rayon is wood pulp or cotton linters. The cellulose of plants is extracted, purified, and treated with chemicals to get a thick honey-coloured solution called viscose. Then, the viscose is passed through fine holes of a spinneret. After that, they are hardened by passing through a sulphuric acid bath and are finally spun into rayon. It is used to make fashionable garments. It is also used for making home furnishings such as bedspreads, curtains and carpets.

Nylon

Nylon is purely synthetic and another common man-made fibre. Moreover, it replaced woollen or silken stockings as it is cheaper and easily available. It is a polymer made from two kinds of monomers by a process called condensation polymerisation. It is used for making socks, stockings, tracksuits, combat uniforms, parachutes, saris, and swimwear.

Polyester

Polyester comes from coal, air, water, and petroleum and is made from repeating units of esters. Common types of polyester that are formed are known as terylene or dacron. It can be blended and drawn into fine fibre threads to woven cloths. Moreover, the properties of polyester are similar to those of nylon. It is used to make conveyor belts, lightweight sails, recording tapes, curtains, and draperies.

Acrylic

Acrylic is a lightweight and soft synthetic fibre. It not only feels like wool but is also warm. Furthermore, it does not shrink, is wrinkle-resistant, and is cheaper than wool. Thus, it is commonly used as a wool substitute. It is used in making sweaters, socks, home furnishings, and blankets.

Advantages of Synthetic Fibres

Candidates can check the advantages of using artificial fibres below:

• Most synthetic fibres have good elasticity.
• These fibres do not wrinkle easily and retain creases.
• Artificial fibres are easily washable and do not leave colour while washing.
• Artificial fibres are easy to dry and do not shrink.
• These fibres come in a variety of colours.
• Artificial fibres are stronger, tougher, and more durable than natural fibres. Thus, it can withstand heavy weight without breaking.
• Synthetic fibres are cheaper than natural fibres.
• These fibres are resistant to insect attacks as compared to natural fibres that are susceptible to larval insect infestation.

Disadvantages of Synthetic Fibres

The disadvantages of artificial fibres are given below:

• Synthetic fibres burn more rapidly than natural fibres.
• They are prone to heat damage, like while hot washing.
• They melt relatively easily.
• Artificial fibres are non-biodegradable or far less biodegradable in comparison to natural fibres.
• Most artificial fibres absorb very little moisture. Thus, it becomes sticky due to body sweats.
• Artificial fibres are a source of microplastic pollution from laundry machines.

Also, check Synthetic Fibres and Plastics

Candidates can get complete information on What is Synthetic Fibre from this article. If you have any queries, feel to visit our website or check our app. From our app, you can learn exam concepts and attempt mock tests for.

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