History of Spandex Essay Example

the two types of prepolymers are mixed together, they interact to form the spandex fibers.Each molecule gets added on to the end of another molecule, and a long chain polymer is formed. To initiate this reaction, a catalyst must be used. Other low molecular weight amines are added to control the molecular weight of the fibers. Spandex fibers are produced white.

After production colorants are added to achieve the desired appearance. When spandex is blended with other fibers then special methods of dying are needed. Spandex fibers can be produced one of four ways; wet spinning, dry spinning, reaction spinning, melt extrusion.These methods all use the same first step where reacting monomers to make a prepolymer. After the prepolymers are produced it is reacted in other ways to create long fibers. The method used to produce over 90% of spandex in the world is dry spinning.

The quality of spandex can is controlled throughout the entire production process. Testing begins with examining the raw materials. Then testing goes on to make sure chemical and physical properties are correct and continues when appearance, color, and odor are evaluated.By having consistent quality checks the manufacture can guarantee the quality of their spandex products.

Spandex is an elastomeric fiber that is natural or synthetic. Elaostmers can be stretched to two times its original length at room temperature and then they will instantly go back to its original length. Spandex can be stretched to 500% its original length without breaking. It has poor strength but is stronger than rubber.

Spandex is very resistant to body oils, perspiration, lotions and detergents.Other properties of spandex include: lightweight, abrasion resistant, soft, smooth,

supple, no static/pilling, very comfortable, and easily dyed. Spandex has a wide array of end uses. Apparel is an obvious end use. Spandex is used in apparel when stretch is desired.

It is also used for comfort and fit purposes. Some examples are: swim apparel, hosiery/leggings, under garments. Compression garments such as surgical and support hose are also made of spandex. Some shaped garments are made from spandex such as bra cups. Home furnishings like micro-bead pillows are made from spandex.

Spandex is usually used in women’s apparel because their clothes are form-fitted. Most spandex in clothing is mixed in with other fibers like cotton and polyester. Spandex is a fiber that is continually evolving with the help of research. Scientists are finding ways to improve elasticity with different prepolymers ratios, catalysts, and fillers. It is also likely that advanced fabrics will have spandex blended into the fibers.

Manufacturing improvements are also promising. All of these advancements will help spandex evolve.