synthetic fibres Flashcards
what are the 3 synthetic fibres?
acrylic
polyester
polyamide
-nylon
where do synthetic fibres come from?
crude oil- oils and coal
how are synthetic fibres made?
polymers are forced through tiny holes and hardened to make a filament
what are the properties of nylon/polyamide?
-strong and elastic
-easy to launder
-dries quickly
-keeps its shape
-smooth fibres-shiny fabric
what are the disadvantages of nylon/polyamide?
-collects static electricity
-damaged by high temps
-feels cold to touch
-does not absorb body moisture
what are the uses of nylon? /polyamide
-swimwear
-bedspreads
-sportwear
all clothes!
what are the properties of polyester?
-resists wrinkling / cam’t crease easily
-strong and hardwearing
-easy to launder
-dries quickly
-resistant to stretching and shrinking
-cheap
-elastic
what are the disadvantages of polyester?
-can be damaged by heat
-highly flammable
-feels cold to the touch
-does not absorb moisture
what are some uses of polyester?
-clothing
-sports clothing
-curtains
what is acrylic made to resemble?
wool. fibres are crimped or spun to trap air
what are the properties of acrylic?
-soft and warm
-thermoplastic
-dries quickly
-lightweight
-dyes well
-crease resistant
what are the disadvantages of acrylic?
-easily damaged by heat
-collects static electricity
-not as warm as wool
not as absorbent as wool
what are the uses of acrylic?
-knitwear
-blankets
-fake fur for toys ect
what are the properties of elastane/ lycra?
-stretchy
-doesn’t crease
-dries quickly
-cheap
-flammable
-not biodegradable
