What are Synthetic Fibres

What are Synthetic Fibres? Definition, Types and Examples

You must have seen people wearing different types of clothes in different seasons. All the clothes that we use are made up of fibres. 

We find two types of fibres in our wardrobe natural and synthetic. We get natural fibres like cotton and wool from plants and animals. Let us see from where we get synthetic fibres.

Synthetic Fibres

These fibres are created by man. He used chemicals in the laboratory and complex procedures to prepare them.

Types of Synthetic Fibres

Rayon: We use this fiber because silk is very expensive and it gives similar look like silk. We call it “imitation silk”. 

We get this fiber using cellulose, which is again a natural product that we get from wood pulp. So, we call it semi-synthetic fibre.

Rayon can absorb moisture and is comfortable. We can easily find jackets, tracksuits, skirts, slacks, blouses, and ties made of this fibre. We can also make its use in bedsheets and blankets.

Nylon: 

This fibre does not absorb moisture and dries up very quickly. We can easily dye it. Amongst all the synthetic fibres, nylon is the strongest and lightest one. You will find it highly elastic. 

We use this fibre to make sleeping bags, toothbrush bristles, ropes for mountain climbing, parachutes, carpets, socks, etc.

Acrylic:

This fibre is used as an alternative to wool. Acrylonitrile is its main component. It is quite warm and wrinkle-resistant fibre. It is not eaten up by moths.

We wear sweaters made of acrylic fibre in winters.

Polyester

It stays the same for a long time. We can easily wash and dry this fibre. It catches fire easily. The most common form of polyester is terylene. 

Due to its durability, it is used in making ropes, PET bottles, curtains, and carpets.

Advantages of Synthetic Fibres

Synthetic fibres are highly known for their durability and strongness. They do not wrinkle. In terms of tensile strength, it is very high. We can dye them in different colors. 

Synthetic Fibres vs Natural Fibres

You must have observed that natural fibres wrinkle very easily. This is not the case with synthetic fibres. They do not wrinkle. In terms of cost, natural fibre is expensive while synthetic one is cheaper. The natural fibre is weak while synthetic fibre is strong.

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