Nylon

• Nylon — first fully synthetic fibre (1930s).
• Strong, elastic, light; absorbs little water.
• Uses: socks, ropes, parachutes, bristles, climbing gear.
• Prepared from chemicals (petrochemicals), not natural cellulose.

1. Synthetic fibre — man-made polymer from monomers in industry.
2. Nylon properties — high tensile strength, elastic, lustrous, wrinkle-resistant.
3. Uses — fishing nets, seat belts, swimwear, toothbrush bristles.
4. Comparison — stronger than many natural fibres per thickness.
5. Activity — nylon thread can be pulled from interface of two solutions (lab demo).
6. Real world — mountaineering ropes; replacing silk in parachutes during WWII.

Why nylon ropes used in rock climbing

Step 1 — High strength supports heavy load without breaking.
Step 2 — Elasticity absorbs shock of a fall briefly.
Step 3 — Resists moisture better than cotton rope.
Step 4 — Lightweight for carrying on climbs.

• Calling nylon natural (fully synthetic).
• Misconception: nylon is same as plastic always (related polymers but different forms).
• Melting nylon on high flame in kitchen (can drip and burn skin).
• Confusing nylon with rayon (rayon regenerated cellulose — semi-synthetic).

• What is nylon? Who uses it and why?
• Give three uses of nylon.
• One advantage of nylon over cotton for rainwear.

Open the Practice tab for graded questions on Nylon.