Spandex or elastane is a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional stretchability. It is stronger and more durable than rubber, its major plant competitor. It was invented in 1959, and when first introduced it revolutionized many areas of the clothing industry.
Spandex is the preferred name in North America, while elastane is most often used elsewhere. A well-known trademark for spandex or elastane is DuPont's brand name Lycra, another trademark (also DuPont's) is Elaspan.
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2 Major spandex fiber uses 3 Production 4 See also 5 External links |
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission definition for spandex fiber is "A manufactured fiber in which the fiber-forming substance is a long chain synthetic polymer comprised of at least 85 percent of a segmented polyurethane."
First U.S. commercial spandex fiber production: 1959, DuPont Company.
Current U.S. spandex fiber producers: DuPont Textiles & Interiors; Globe Manufacturing Company; Bayer CorporationSpandex fiber characteristics
Major spandex fiber uses
Production