Elastomeric

Fibers
 Elastomeric fibers
Elastomeric fibers are synthetic materials or polymers known for their
exceptional elasticity and ability to stretch significantly, often up to several times
their original length, and then return to their original shape when the stretching force
is released.
Elastomeric fibers are typically synthetic fibers containing at least 85% of a
segmented polyurethane. In general the fibers are characterized by high elastic
recovery (up to 99% recovery) and high extensibility (up to 500%), to an extent that
depends on their exact chemical composition and fabrication method used to
produce them.
In Europe, elastomeric fibers are often known as Lycra fibers (though other brands
such as Roica and Dorlastan also exist), and in the United States they are known as
Spandex.
Raw materials: There are four traditional thermoplastic elastomer types that can be
used to produce elastomeric fiber, i.e., polyurethanes, polyester copolymers,
styrene copolymers, and the olefinics.
Md. Abdul Alim, Asst. Prof., Dept. of Textile Engineering, KUET. 2
 Elastomeric fibers
Properties of elastomeric fibers
Elasticity: Elastomeric fibers are highly elastic and can stretch significantly beyond
their original length, often up to 500% or more.
Excellent Recovery: After being stretched, elastomeric fibers can return to their
original shape when the stretching force is removed.
Softness: Elastomeric fibers are known for their soft and comfortable feel against
the skin.
Strength: Elastomeric fibers offer good strength and durability, which is essential
for withstanding repeated stretching and wear.
Lightweight: Elastomeric fibers are lightweight, which makes them suitable for use
in garments and products where minimizing weight is important.
Resistance to Deformation: These fibers are resistant to permanent deformation
even after repeated stretching and use.
Draping: As the fibers are flexible and lightweight, have good draping properties.
Md. Abdul Alim, Asst. Prof., Dept. of Textile Engineering, KUET. 3
 Elastomeric fibers
Durability: Elastomeric fibers are known for their durability, which makes them to
withstand extensive use and washing.
Chemical Resistance: Elastomeric fibers can exhibit resistance to various
chemicals, oils, and solvents, depending on their composition.
Temperature Resistance: Some elastomeric fibers, such as silicone-based ones,
have excellent temperature resistance, making them suitable for use in extreme heat.
Biocompatibility: In medical and healthcare applications, certain elastomeric fibers
are biocompatible.
Versatility: Elastomeric fibers are versatile and can be incorporated into a wide
range of products, including clothing, medical devices, industrial textiles, and more.
They can be blended with other materials to achieve specific performance
characteristics.
Moisture Management: Elastomeric fibers often have moisture-wicking properties,
helping to keep the skin dry by moving moisture away from the body.

Md. Abdul Alim, Asst. Prof., Dept. of Textile Engineering, KUET. 4

 Elastomeric fibers
Types of elastomeric fibers
Elastomeric fibers come in several types, each with its unique properties and
applications. Here are some common types of elastomeric fibers:
Spandex (Elastane or Lycra): Spandex is perhaps the most well-known
elastomeric fiber. It's known for its outstanding elasticity and excellent recovery
properties. Spandex fibers can stretch up to 500% or more of their original length
and return to their original shape when relaxed. They are widely used in sportswear,
swimwear, and form-fitting clothing.
Rubber Threads: Natural or synthetic rubber threads are also used as elastomeric
fibers. They offer good elasticity and are often used in applications where natural
rubber properties are beneficial, such as in waistbands of underwear or in certain
types of hosiery.
Polyurethane (PU) Elastomeric Fibers: Polyurethane-based elastomeric fibers are
known for their excellent abrasion resistance and strength. They are commonly
used in sportswear, outdoor fabrics, and industrial applications where durability and
elasticity are essential.

Md. Abdul Alim, Asst. Prof., Dept. of Textile Engineering, KUET. 5

 Elastomeric fibers
Thermoplastic Elastomers (TPEs): TPEs are a versatile group of elastomeric
materials that combine the properties of thermoplastics and elastomers. TPEs are
used in a wide range of applications, including automotive components, medical
devices, and consumer products.
Latex Elastomeric Fibers: Latex, a natural rubber material, can also be spun into
elastomeric fibers. These fibers are known for their comfort and are often used in
intimate apparel, such as bras and undergarments.
Silicone Elastomeric Fibers: Silicone-based elastomeric fibers offer excellent
resistance to extreme temperatures and chemicals. They find applications in
specialized industries like aerospace, healthcare, and protective gear.
Elastomeric Blends: Some elastomeric fibers are created by blending different
elastomeric materials to achieve specific performance characteristics. These blends
can offer a balance of properties such as elasticity, strength, and durability tailored
to particular applications.

Md. Abdul Alim, Asst. Prof., Dept. of Textile Engineering, KUET. 6

 Elastomeric fibers
Application of elastomeric fibers
1. Apparel and Clothing:
Sportswear: Elastomeric fibers like spandex are commonly used in
sportswear, such as athletic leggings, compression shirts, and yoga pants.
Swimwear: Elastomeric fibers are ideal for swimwear, offering a snug fit,
shape retention, and resistance to chlorine and saltwater.
Intimate Apparel: Bras, panties, and shapewear often incorporate
elastomeric fibers to enhance fit and comfort.
Socks: Elastomeric fibers can be used in socks to provide a secure fit and
prevent them from slipping down.
2. Medical and Healthcare:
Compression Garments: Elastomeric fibers are used in compression
stockings, sleeves, and bandages to improve blood circulation, reduce
swelling, and aid in post-surgery recovery.
Md. Abdul Alim, Asst. Prof., Dept. of Textile Engineering, KUET. 7
 Elastomeric fibers
Orthopedic Supports: They are used in products like knee braces, wrist
supports, and back belts to provide both support and flexibility.
Disposable Medical Garments: Elastomeric fibers are used in disposable
medical gowns, gloves, and masks due to their stretch and comfort properties.
3. Industrial and Technical Textiles:
Conveyor Belts: Elastomeric fibers provide the strength, flexibility, and
durability required in conveyor belts used in various industries.
Automotive Components: They are used in automotive textiles for seat
covers, headliners, and airbags.
Outdoor Textiles: Elastomeric fibers are found in outdoor fabrics like tents,
awnings, and camping gear due to their weather resistance and durability.
Upholstery: In furniture manufacturing, elastomeric fibers can be used in
upholstery fabrics to provide comfort and long-lasting resilience.

Md. Abdul Alim, Asst. Prof., Dept. of Textile Engineering, KUET. 8

 Elastomeric fibers
4. Footwear:
Athletic Shoes: Elastomeric fibers are integrated into the uppers and soles of
athletic shoes for improved fit, support, and shock absorption.
Elastic Shoelaces: They are used in elastic shoelaces that eliminate the need
for tying and provide a secure fit.
5. Consumer Goods:
Elastic Bands and Straps: Elastomeric fibers are used in a variety of
consumer products like hairbands, luggage straps, and elastic
waistbands in clothing.
Elastic Sheets: In bedding and fitted sheets, elastomeric fibers help maintain
a snug fit and prevent wrinkling.
6. Smart Textiles: Elastomeric fibers can be incorporated into smart textiles and
wearable technology to create garments with stretchable sensors and monitoring
capabilities.
Md. Abdul Alim, Asst. Prof., Dept. of Textile Engineering, KUET. 9
 Elastomeric fibers
7. Automotive and Aerospace: Elastomeric fibers are used in automotive
components such as gaskets, seals, and hoses, as well as in aerospace
applications for vibration dampening and insulation.
8. Safety Gear: In industries requiring protective gear, elastomeric fibers can be
used in helmets, gloves, and other safety equipment to provide comfort and
flexibility.
9. Entertainment Industry: Costumes and props in the entertainment industry
often use elastomeric fibers to create special effects and comfortable costumes
for actors and performers.

Md. Abdul Alim, Asst. Prof., Dept. of Textile Engineering, KUET. 10

 Elastomeric fibers
Manufacturing process of spandex
Spandex fibers are manufactured in four different ways- melt extrusion,
electro spinning, solution dry spinning, and solution wet spinning.
Solution Dry Spinning Method
Prepolymer formation: The first step involves the chemical reaction of the
monomers to produce prepolymer. The resulting prepolymer undergoes further
reaction in various ways and is subsequently drawn out to produce a long fibre.
Solution dry spinning is used to produce the main industrial products of Spandex.
In this method the production of the Prepolymer is done initially by mixing polyol
with a diisocyanate (DIC) monomer. A typical ratio of polyol to diisocyanate may
be 1:2.
Solution preparation: The prepolymer is further reacted with an equal amount of
diamine to increase the molecular weight in a chain extension step. The resulting
solution is diluted with a solvent Tetrahydrofuran (THF) to produce the spinning
solution.
Md. Abdul Alim, Asst. Prof., Dept. of Textile Engineering, KUET. 11
 Elastomeric fibers
Spinning: The spinning solution is pumped into a cylindrical spinning cell where it
is cured and subsequently converted into the fibres. In the spinning cell, the polymer
solution is forced through a metal plate with small holes called a spinneret.
Coagulation: As the strands pass through the cell, they are heated in the presence of
nitrogen and solvent gas, making the liquid polymer to chemically react and form
solid strands. Specific amount of the solid strands are bundled together as the fibres
exit the cell to produce the desires thickness.
A compressed air device is normally used to twist the fibres together. Each fibre of
Spandex is made up of many small individuals fibres that adhere to one another due
to the natural stickiness of their surfaces.
Finishing: The fibres are then treated with a finishing agent such as magenesium
sterate or another polymer such as poly(dimethly siloxane). These finishing
materials prevent the fibres from sticking together.

Md. Abdul Alim, Asst. Prof., Dept. of Textile Engineering, KUET. 12

13