Spandex is an incredibly stretchy and elastic fiber, playing a vital role in making elastic and comfortable fabrics.
The History of Spandex
Spandex was developed in 1959 by Joseph C. Shivers, a textile scientist at DuPont. Originally known as "K fiber," DuPont chose the trade name Lycra for its brand of spandex fiber, marking its introduction to the market.
The Properties of Spandex
- Wrinkle-resistant: Spandex is wrinkle-resistant, making it ideal for low-maintenance clothing.
- Abrasion Resistance: It is able to resist wear and abrasion, thus ensuring increased durability of the fabrics in which it is incorporated.
- Relatively Weak as a Fiber, But Strong and Durable: Despite its thinness, spandex is stronger and more durable than rubber, providing superior performance in elastic garments.
- Pill Resistant: It features pilling resistance, keeping fabrics looking newer for longer.
Why Choose Spandex?
Spandex is chosen for its exceptional stretchability, wear resistance, and comfort. It is widely used in sportswear, underwear, swimwear, and other items where elasticity and performance are essential.
