Nylon

Nylon is the family name for all synthetic polyamides.

Manufacture:
Nylon is made through a complex series of chemical processes, using coal or petroleum, water and air. It can be made into continuous filaments or short lengths (staple yarn). Nylon is a thermoplastic, silky material, it was first used commercially in a nylon-bristled toothbrushin 1938. Nylons are condensation copolymers, formed by reacting difunctional monomers containing equal parts of amine and carboxylic acid.

Characteristics or properties of Nylon:
1. It is very strong. Strength is not affected by wetting.
2. It resists abrasion well.
3. It is very elastic and does not crease easily.
4. It does not absorb much water.
5. It has smooth surface. Therefore it is resistant to soiling.
6. It is easy to wash. It dries easily.
7. It is light in weight.
8. It requires no ironing.
9. It is durable.
10. It is resistant to mildew and moth.
11. It is not comfortable to wear in hot weather.
12. It does not shrink.
13. White nylon may become grey or yellow with age.
14. It is weakened by prolonged exposure to sunlight.
15. It is often blended with wool or cotton.

Nylon tend to cling to the skin especially during harmattan or cold season. It is said to be electro-static.

Uses of Nylon:
Nylon is used for different types of garments for example underwears, night-wears, stockings, curtains, carpets, upholstery, etc.