Fibers, Elastomeric

Abstract

Most elastomeric fibers are currently produced from either natural rubber or segmented polyurethane polymers. The elastic properties or rubber fibers derive from chemical cross‐links formed by vulcanization of either sheets or extruded threads. The segmented polyurethanes, called spandex fibers, are linear block copolymers with relatively long weakly interacting segments that are interconnected by shorter blocks in which intermolecular interactions are strong. Rubber fibers are formed either by slitting vulcanized sheets or by extruding latex into a coagulation bath followed by heating to vulcanize. Spandex fibers are most commonly formed by passing polymer solution through a spinneret followed by removal of solvent; certain spandex compositions can be formed into fibers by melt extrusion. These fibers are normally blended with hard fibers such as nylon, polyester, or cotton to form fabrics with desirable stretch and recovery characteristics. Stabilizers must be included with elastomeric fibers to provide adequate protection from exposure to heat, sunlight, atmospheric pollutants, and active chlorine materials. The unique properties and availability in fine sizes compared to rubber has recently allowed extensive penetration of spandex fibers into hosiery and sportswear markets.

Discrete Cationic Complexes for Ring-Opening Polymerization Catalysis of Cyclic Esters and Epoxides

“…Although much older, the ROP of strained epoxides such as cyclohexene oxide (CHO) and propylene oxide (PO) for the production of aliphatic polyethers became the subject of intense scrutiny in the late 1980s. Poly­(propylene oxide) (PPO) is in particular a main component for the preparation of polyurethanes, and its use as a bulk commodity material is widespread . As a result of the societal and environmental concerns already mentioned, the impetus has more recently switched from the simple ROP of epoxides to the ring-opening copolymerization with carbon dioxide, an attractive feedstock .…”

Effect of Elastane and Thread Density on Mechanical Attributes of Stretch Woven Fabric

“…Commercial spinning processes for manufacturing filament yarn (e.g., solution wet filament spinning, reaction spinning, solution dry spinning, and melt spinning) are currently in use. 1,2…”