Fiber Engineering to Meet End Use Requirements1

Abstract

Present-day knowledge of end use requirements for textile products has directed syn thetic fiber research to the development of a highly sophisticated ancillary technology . which is now in the early stages of commercial application. This new technology, in com bination with the older polymer and spinning technology for nylon, polyester, and acrylic fibers, achieves significantly new and improved levels of end use performance. The new technology is of major significance for the consumer and indeed is required to fully capitalize upon the basic properties afforded by the polymer used in the manu facture of the fiber. The examples chosen to illustrate the new approaches to engineering of new fibers cover such diverse end uses as hosiery, filament weaving yarns, carpets, and tires. All examples are based upon 66 nylon to emphasize the importance of the ancillary technology.