All you Wanted to Know about Spandex

All you wanted to know about Spandex
Spandex is a synthetic polymer made from a long-chain polyglycol and a short diisocyanate. It
contains around 85 per cent polyurethane, which is produced by reacting polyester with a
diisocyanate. The fabric can be stretched to almost 500 per cent of their length and it shrinks to its
original size when released.
History of Spandex
The development of spandex began during World War II when researchers were developing an
alternative to rubber as the available rubber was mostly used to build equipment for war. Also, the
cost of rubber was fluctuating frequently.
The investigators started making durable elastic strand based on synthetic polymers. The year 1940
witnessed the production of first polyurethane elastomers. These polymers produced mill able gums.
During this time, first nylon polymers were also invented. As these early nylon polymers were stiff,

efforts were made to bring more elasticity. Scientists decided that polyurethanes might be useful in
making nylons more stretchable. The first spandex fibers were produced by Farbenfabriken Bayer.
The fiber is stronger, lighter, and more versatile than rubber. It is used to make stretchable clothing
such as sportswear, waist bands and swimsuits. Off late, it is also used to make home décor items
such as chair covers, table covers and trash can covers. New applications for spandex are continually
being discovered.
Advantages of Spandex
Spandex fibers are stretchable
They are lightweight
They are soft, and smooth
They can be easily dyed.
They are resistant to abrasion and stains of body oils, perspiration, and detergents
They are compatible with other materials
They can be spun with other types of fibers to produce unique fabrics

Uses of Spandex
As it is lightweight and does not restrict movement, it is the best fabric for athletic wear. It is used to
make as swimsuits, bicycle pants, and exercise wear. The form-fitting property of spandex makes it a
suitable fiber for under-garments. Hence, it is used in waist bands, support hose, bras, and briefs.
Spandex also gives an elegant and luxurious look to your furniture as it is smooth, silky and wrinklefree.
Being a water resistant fabric, Spandex chair covers and table linens protect your chairs and
tables from sun and moisture. Lately, spandex trash can covers are also widely used. As spandex is a
stain-free fiber, maintaining it quite easy.
In The End
There are various websites providing chair covers, table linens and spandex trash can covers at
affordable price. Do compare the websites and choose a good online portal for your home décor
products.