2A Nylon(Polyamide)

Question 1

Properties of nylon (9)

Answer 1

• strong: excellent abrasion/tear resistance
• resilient: good elasticity and crease resistance
• high extensibility: high breaking extension when wet and dry
• prone to electrostatic charge (unless finish is used)
• thermoplastic: can be permanently shaped using heat
• flammable
• resistant to alkalis/solvents/mould/mildew
• poor absorption (textured filaments can wick away moisture - engineered to add breathable comfort)
• not biodegradable

Question 2

After care (nylon)

Answer 2

• washable
• quick drying
• iron with care

Question 3

Blends (nylon)

Answer 3

• wool
• cotton
• silk
• other synthetics

Question 4

End uses (nylon)

Answer 4

• clothing: tights/lingerie/swimwear/linings/sportswear/dresses/weatherproof clothing
• outdoor equipment: carpets/tents/parachutes/ropes
• seatbelts
• umbrellas
• industrial fabrics
• sewing threads

Question 5

Fabrics (nylon)

Answer 5

• microfibres
• Antron®
• Tactel®
• aramids: Kevlar®/Nomex®

Question 6

Finishes (nylon)

Answer 6

• anti-static treatment
• lame resistant finish
• other treatments (depending on end use)

Question 7

Testing (nylon)

Answer 7

Burning:
- shrinks and melts
- fibre forms drips
- dripping away from flame
Residue:
- hard/solid

Question 8

How is nylon made?

Answer 8

• made from polyamide
• thermoplastic: made up of repeated units linked by a chemical bond
• PA chips are melted and extruded into continuous filaments
• extrusion process: stretching the liquid PA through spinnerets 3-4 times the original size gives nylon its strength and resistance to wear
• staple fibres produced by cutting filaments into required length
• thickness and properties vary depending on how the fibre has been formed