Synthetic fibres

//Synthetic Fibres//

Synthetic fibres are turned into textile pulp on a petroleum base. This is then squeezed through spinnerets and forms a continuous thread when cooling/drying. Depending on requirements, this thread can also be cut into fibres of varying lengths to make spinning it with other fibres possible. The fibre count, fibre cross section shape and the degree of drawing can be controlled through the spinnerets, i.e. fibres can be adapted according to use. There are specific fibres, e.g. for blending with wool or cotton, fibre types for technical fabrics or for active sportswear.

PROPERTIES OF SYNTHETICS

THEY ARE VERY STRONG // THEY ABSORB LITTLE MOISTURE // THEY ARE ELASTIC, IF REQUIRED // THEY ARE CREASE-RESISTANT // THEY ARE THERMOPLASTIC // THEY ARE THERMOSETTABLE // THEY CAN BE TEXTURED (POSSIBLE CRIMPING) // THEIR CARE IS SIMPLE // THEY CAN BE RECYCLED IN THEIR PURE FORM // THEY BARLEY DECOMPOSE, I.E. THEY ARE ENVIROMENTALLY HARMFUL // THE DYEING AND FINISHING PROCESS IS NOT VERY ORGANIC

Polyamide / PA

In the case of polyamide, the formation of molecular chains happens through polycondensation or polymerisation. Polyamide is extremely strong and can be produced in a large range of fineness. From uses such as as micro fibres to coarse fibres, e.g. for ropes. E.g. used in woollen yarns, it serves as a spinning medium and provides the thread with the required stability. It stains with the same dyes as wool, which is why it is often used in that combination. In elastic woven or knitted fabric, it is the ideal partner for elastane.

Polyacrylic / PC

Polymerisation is also used for polyacrylonitrile fibres. They are usually crimped during the spinning process. This gives them a wool-like feel, large volume, and makes them heat-insulating. They have caught on particularly well in knitting. As fabric they are mostly used for blankets and faux fur.

Polyester / PL or PES

Polyester is the most common fibre in the textile sector. It is also produced with polycondensation. It is used both on its own and with other types of fibres. Polyester is adapted to the respective natural fibres with respect to its properties so that e.g. yarns can be spun out more finely and/or the stability and strength of the yarn is increased. It is much more heat-resistant than polyamide or acrylic. This property is used, e.g. for pleating (280 degrees). Due to the obtainable sheen and fineness, PE is also used as a substitute for silk. Woven plain-coloured, more rarely colour-woven and as a base for printing. Also suitable for jersey.

Polyurethane / PU

Mostly used for technical textiles, e.g. Moltopren or similar fabrics. However, also as base material for elastic fibres like lycra.

Polyvinyl Chloride/ PVC

Used primarily as coating material.

Polybutylene / PBT

Very rarely used in outerwear. Has almost no water absorbency and is very resistant to chemicals.

//ELASTIC SYNTHETICS//

Elastane / EA or Elastodiene / EL

Both have high elasticity (up to 700% of their initial length). They can only be used in combination with other fibres. Elastane is used most often, e.g. lycra. They only exist as filament (continuous thread). Used in both woven and knitted fabrics. Used in combination with, e.g. polyamide in sportswear or for stockings. In the high-quality natural fibre sector, it is combined with virgin wool, cotton or silk in order to give these materials more elasticity and therefore increase their wearing comfort. The melting point of elastane is at 170 degrees (polyester: 280 degrees), i.e. be careful during processing! If damaged once, the elasticity goes away.

//Other fibres//

Metal / ME

Fine metal threads that give a metallic shimmer as part of fabric compositions or fancy yarn.
They do not require any special care. They influence the feel and drape of fabrics to a significant extent.