Synthetic Fibres: Types, Properties & Examples

Synthetic fibers are a type of man-made fiber that is obtained from polymers found in natural gas and by-products of petroleum. It is a chain of small units joined together, where each small unit is known as a monomer.

• Synthetic fibers are derived from chemical synthesis.
• They are created by extruding fiber-forming materials through spinnerets, forming fiber. 
• These types of fibers are more durable and affordable, which makes them more popular in comparison to natural fibers.
• Nylon is the first synthetic fiber that was created at DuPont's research facility.
• Some important properties of synthetic fiber include durability, strength, resistance to wrinkling, and easy maintenance.

Key Terms: Synthetic Fibres, Natural Fibres, Rayon, Nylon, Polyester, Acrylic, Classification of Synthetic Fibres, Natural Gas, Petroleum, Monomers, Properties of Synthetic Fibres, Polymers, Fibres, Cotton

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What is Synthetic Fibre?

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Synthetic fibre is a type of fibre that is produced from chemical processes rather than natural resources. It is also known as man-made fibres and artificial fibres. 

• These fibres are created by the process of polymerization.
• Since petroleum is one of the raw materials used in the preparation of these fibres hence sometimes it is also known as petrochemicals.
• These fibres are formed of tiny units or polymers that are made up of numerous repeating monomers.
• Due to its low flammability, synthetic fibres are used in clothing and upholstery.
• Polyamide fibres and Polypropylene fibres are types of fibres that are differentiated on the basis of chemical composition.

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Classification of Synthetic Fibres

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Synthetic fibres can be classified into the following categories:

Rayon

Rayon is considered to be a very soft fabric with a luscious fall and better absorbing qualities than cotton. It was also known as artificial silk. This is a semi-synthetic fibre that is popular with the name viscose-rayon regenerated cellulose. 

• Rayon does not insulate body heat, so it is used in hot and humid climates.
• The fibre can be dyed in a variety of colours and is often mixed with cotton to make bed sheets. 
• These fibres can be dried easily and are highly absorbent.
• Wood is the primary source for the extraction of ‘Rayon’.

Nylon

Nylon fabric is a polymer which is composed of adipic acid hexamethylenediamine. There are different types of nylon, but most of them are derived from polyamide monomers that are extracted from crude oil, which is also known as petroleum. 

• In some cases, they are stunned into their own fabrics, but it is usually combined with other fabrics to create mixed textiles.
• They are soluble in hydrochloric acid and can be dried easily.
• It is most commonly used in socks, ropes, tents, toothbrushes, car seat belts, sleeping bags, curtains, etc. 

Polyester

Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is primarily derived from petroleum. This fabric is among the most famous fabrics in the world and is used in numerous different consumer and industrial applications. 

• This fabric is also known as polyethene terephthalate, PET or microfiber. 
• It was first produced in the United States.
• The fibre is hydrophobic in nature, and it gets dry quickly.
• Polyester is used in nets, raincoats, jackets, etc.

Acrylic

Acrylic fabric is produced artificially through a synthetic polymer known as acrylonitrile, which is derived from petroleum or coal-based chemicals. It is then synthesized for acrylic resin pellets. 

• This fabric is mostly used in clothing. 
• For example, it is used in sweatshirts, hoodies, jackets, athletic wear, etc.

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Properties of Synthetic Fibres

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Some important properties of synthetic fibres are listed below,

• Synthetic fibres are resistant to moisture, dew, and UV radiation, which makes them suitable for outdoor applications.
• These fibres have good elasticity and retain their shape and form, even after multiple washings and wear.
• These are stronger than natural fibres.
• These are more durable and cheaper than natural fibres.
• Synthetic fibres dry up in much less time.
• These fabrics are easy to maintain and wash.
• They are resistant to different chemicals, which makes them ideal for use in chemical products such as laboratory coats and protective clothing.
• Due to their unique texture and appearance, these fibres are non-allergenic and do not harbour bacteria or odours.

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Advantages of Synthetic Fibres

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The advantages of synthetic fibres are listed below:

• Synthetic fibres do not wrinkle up easily.
• They do not shrink very often.
• These fabrics blend well with other fabrics.
• These types of fabrics are less expensive, more durable and much more readily available.
• They can handle the heavy loads without breaking.

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Disadvantages of Synthetic Fibres

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The disadvantages of synthetic fibres are listed below,

• Synthetic fibres require focused attention while ironing as they tend to melt away easily in hot temperatures.
• Most of these absorb very less heat, making it uncomfortable to wear in the summer season
• Synthetic fibres are prone to catch fire very easily.
• These fabrics are non-biodegradable.

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Things to Remember

• Synthetic fibres are man-made fibres that are made up of polymers. 
• These types of fibres are less expensive, more durable and much more readily available.
• They are used in tennis rackets, fishing lines, and ski ropes for their strength.
• Acrylics, nylon, polyurethane, and polypropylene are different types of synthetic fibres.
• Due to their colours, styles, and texture, these fibres are highly versatile.