Chemistries

Nylon 6,6 is synthesized by the reaction of hexamethylene diamine and adipic acid. Nylon 6,6 is provides higher mechanical strength, rigidity, resiliency, color fastness and optimal stability at high temperatures. It's natural aesthetic provides a delustered wool-like finish commonly found in natural fibers.

PET is a thermoplastic polymer used in synthetic fibers (>60%), beverage, food and other liquid containers (30%), thermoforming applications; and engineering resins often in combination with glass fiber. It is highly resistant to a variety of water-based stains. As a fiber, its mechanical properties can be enhanced by heat setting.

Triexta is the generic name for the fiber made from PTT polymer, a type of polyester, sold as DuPontT Sorona® and used in apparel and flooring products. Triexta is recognized as being more durable and resilient than conventional polyester. It lacks polyester's high luster, and more closely resembles nylon's matte finish. Triexta's high level of stain resistance is attributed to low moisture absorption.

PBT is another type of polyester. It is resistant to solvents, has low shrinkage during fiber formation, is mechanically strong, heat-resistant up to 150 °C and can be treated with flame retardants. In yarn, it has a natural stretch similar to Lycra® and can be incorporated into sportswear. On account of its chlorine resistance, it is found especially in swimwear.

Polyetherimide (PEI) resins offer outstanding elevated thermal resistance, high strength and stiffness, and broad chemical resistance. ULTEM® copolymers manufactured by Sabic offer even higher heat, chemical and elasticity properties.

Polypropylene fibers are easily melt colored, (also known as solution dyed or producer dyed), and are used in manufacturing carpets, rugs and mats to be used at home. Polypropylene ropes are distinctive because they are light enough to float in water. For equal mass and construction, polypropylene rope is similar in strength to polyester. Fine denier PP fibers make a soft, comfortable base layer that stays dry as perspired moisture is drawn through to performance apparel surface layers for evaporation.

Nylon 6,10 is a semi-crystalline polyamide commonly used in monofilament form in applications such as bristles and brushes. Due to its low moisture absorption compared to other polyamides, it has better property retention when wet.

Polyamide 12 has unique performance properties, such as minimal water absorption; the fibers show almost no dimensional changes with variation in atmospheric humidity. Other benefits include high impact resistance, good to excellent resistance to greases, oils, fuels, hydraulic fluids, and many solvents as well as to salt solutions. PA 12 exhibits excellent resistance to stress cracking and abrasion. It has a low dry sliding friction coefficient and a lower softening / melting point than other nylons, making it useful as a binder in thermoplastic composites.

PLA is derived from lactic acid obtained from renewable resources such as corn, tapioca or sugarcane. It is a type of polyester. It can be used in packaging material, films and fibers. There are several forms of PLA available with different melting points and crystallinity levels depending on the form of lactic acid monomer used. PLA fibers are used extensively in non-woven textiles.