Synthetic Fibre - Definition, Examples, Uses, FAQs

Synthetic Fibre

Synthetic fibres are obtained from chemicals or petrochemicals and are made from raw materials such as petroleum. These materials are used to make several sorts of fibres by polymerising them into long, linear with diverse chemical components. Synthetic fibres are used in nearly every fibre and textile technology aspect, accounting for over half of all fibre utilisation. Many kinds of synthetic polymer fibres have been studied as potentially significant commercial products; three of the most popular are nylon, polyester, and rayon.
The earliest synthetic fibres were created in the nineteenth century. The requirement for stronger fibres that could endure a lot of pressure was one of the key reasons for their development.

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Examples of Synthetic Fibre

The following are some of the most prevalent examples of synthetic fibre or artificial fibres:

Rayon:

Rayon is a semisynthetic material manufactured from a mixture of wood pulp (cellulose), carbon disulphide, and sodium hydroxide. It is used to imitate natural fibres such as cotton and silk. There are also numerous rayon subtypes.

Nylon:

Nylon is a synthetic fibre created solely by chemical processes and is one of the most widely used.

Polyester:

Polyester is a popular man-made fibre or artificial fibre that is produced chemically from plant proteins and is commonly utilised in the production of plastic bottles. The key features are its strong strength and longer shelf life.

Some other examples of artificial fibres.

Dacron, lyocell, modal, PAN, asbestos, spandex, and polyurethane are examples of artificial fibres.

Advantages of Synthetic Fibre

1. Synthetic clothes made from synthetic fibres are extremely long-lasting and don't wrinkle readily.
2. Synthetic clothes are stretchable and can be stretched out easily.
3. Synthetic fibres are sturdy and capable of bearing a heavy load.
4. Because they are soft, they are commonly used to make garments from synthetic materials.
5. They are less expensive than natural fibres.

Disadvantages of Synthetic Fibre

1. The majority of synthetic fibres do not absorb water.
2. When synthetic fibres are washed in hot water, they might be damaged.
3. When compared to natural fibres, they are more prone to catching fire.

Uses of Synthetic Fibre

For non-textile applications, a variety of synthetic fibres are utilised. Some of these are combined with natural fibres to create sophisticated fabrics that combine the best of both worlds. A stretchable fabric used for shirting and other clothing materials is an example of this method. Synthetic clothes are therefore popular. It not only improves the appearance and feel of the product, but it also improves the quality.

The following are some uses along with the properties of synthetic fibres.

Uses of synthetic fibre: Rayon

• Rayon is a soft, absorbent, and pleasant material.
• It's simple to dye in a variety of colours.
• Bedsheets are made from a blend of rayon and cotton.
• Carpets are made from a blend of rayon and wool.

Uses of synthetic fibre: Nylon

• Nylon is a glossy, easy-to-clean, and stretchable fabric.
• It's quick to dry and holds its shape.
• Nylon is used in automobile seat belts, sleeping bags, stockings, ropes, and other products.
• Nylon is also utilised in the manufacture of parachutes, fishing nets and ropes for rock climbing.

Uses of synthetic fibre: Polyester

• Polyester is made up of esters, which are repeating units of a chemical.
• Polyester is wrinkle-free and easy to launder, making it an excellent choice for dressmaking.
• Polyester maintains its form and crispness.
• Polyester is used in making make ropes, nets, raincoats, and jackets, among other things.

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Some Solved Examples

Question 1: Caprolactam when heated at high temperature in presence of water, gives

1) Nylon 6, 6

2) (correct) Nylon 6

3) Teflon

4) Dacron

Solution:

Hence, the answer is the option (2).

Question 2: Intermolecular forces found in crystalline form of nylon-6,6-

1) Covalent bonds

2) Vaander waal forces

3) Ionic bonds

4) (correct) H-bond

Solution:

Fibers -

The intermolecular forces between the chains are H-bonds. They are crystalline in nature.

- wherein

Eg:- Nylon 66, Terylene, Silk.

As we have learned

Intermolecular forces found in crystalline form of nylon-6,6 is H- Bond

Hence, the answer is option (4).

Question 3: Which of the following is a synthetic fiber?

A) Cotton
B) Wool
C) Nylon
D) Silk

Solution:

Nylon is a synthetic fiber, while cotton, wool, and silk are natural fibers. Synthetic fibers are made through chemical processes, while natural fibers come from plants and animals.

Hence, the answer is option (3).

Question 4: Which of the following synthetic fibers is commonly used as a substitute for wool?

A) Acrylic
B) Polyester
C) Nylon
D) Spandex

Solution:

Acrylic fibers are lightweight, soft, and often used as a substitute for wool because they mimic the feel and appearance of wool at a lower cost.

Hence, the answer is option (1).