|
Synthetic
fibers are, man made fibers. Most synthetic fibers are derived
from petroleum products. There are four synthetics which compromise
better than 98% of the face yarns used in carpet.
|
| Nylon |
| Characteristics
Rated as one of the longest & most
widely used carpet fiber. Features include cleanablility,
dyeability, some stain and soil resistance, ability to
recover resiliency, moth proof, mildew proof, non-allergenic
and color retention. Nylon is usually acid dyed but may
be solution dyed. |
 |
Disadvantages
|
- Acid dye stains easily (unless 5th generation)
- May discolor from sunlight, ozone or other oxidants,
- Disperse dye stains (even 5th generation).
|
|
| Polyester |
| Characteristics
Good abrasion resistance, good color retention, ability to accept bright,
vivid colors, stain resistance, and wearability. It's moth proof, stain
and soil resistant, mildew resistant, and non-allergenic. |
|
Disadvantages
|
- Less resilient
- Crimp loss - yarn compression and loss of fibers.
|
|
| Acrylic/Modacrylic |
| Characteristics
this fiber has been considered the most wool-like in appearance and texture.
Acrylics are known for their dyeability, wearability, resistance to staining,
color retention and resistance to abrasion. They're non-allergenic, mildew proof
and moth proof.
|
|
Disadvantages
|
- Less abrasion resistant
- Not as resilient
|
|
| OLEFIN (Polypropylene) |
| Characteristics
Polypropylene is known for its outstanding stain resistance, easy cleanability,
wearability, and low absorption factor, abrasion resistance, mildew proof, moth
proof, non-allergenic, and color retention.
|
|
Disadvantages
|
- Not resistant to oil
- Low melting temperature
- Poor resilience.
|
|
| Blended Fibers |
Combinations of fibers have been used for years to achieve
various benefits. Nylon/Olefin blends in commercial carpet.
Nylon/Polyester, Nylon/Acrylic,Wool/Nylon are other common
blends, each having its own unique qualities. |
|
| top |
| |
|
|
|
