Career Paths | Overview | Fiber Characteristics | Spandex

FIBER AND FABRIC EDUCATION PROGRAM -

Fiber Characteristics - Spandex

Manufactured Fiber

CHARACTERISTICS:

• Lightweight
• Can be stretched over 500% without breaking
• Able to be stretched repetitively and still recover original length
• Abrasion resistant
• Stronger, more durable than rubber
• Soft, smooth and supple
• Resistant to body oils, perspiration, lotions or detergents
• No static or pilling problems

MAJOR END USES:

• Apparel - articles where stretch is desired: athletic apparel, bathing suits, foundation garments, ski pants, slacks, hosiery, socks, belts.

Comment - Lycra® is the most familiar spandex fiber, and is DuPont's brand name for its spandex fiber. An interesting fact about spandex is that it was developed as a substitute for rubber. And, when it was first introduced in 1959, it totally revolutionized the swimwear and foundations industry. Although it has poor strength, it stretches over 500%. So, the excellent stretch of spandex compensates for the fact that it's a weak fiber.

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