Rayon and nylon are two artificially manufactured fibers with distinct differences. Rayon is a semi-synthetic fiber made from wood pulp and shares many properties with natural fibers like cotton and linen. On the other hand, nylon is a synthetic fiber made from chemical by-products of petroleum, coal, and agricultural products. Both fibers have different levels of resistance to wrinkles and tears, with rayon being more prone and nylon being more resistant.
Key Takeaways
- Rayon is a semi-synthetic fiber made from wood pulp, while nylon is a synthetic fiber made from chemical by-products of petroleum, coal, and agricultural products.
- Rayon is similar to natural fibers, with properties like softness, breathability, and moisture absorbency, while nylon has low absorbency, high heat resistance, and is less prone to wrinkles and tears.
- Rayon is often used for clothing and household items, while nylon is commonly used in stockings, swimwear, and other athletic wear, as well as various industrial and military applications.
What is Rayon?
Rayon is a regenerated cellulose fiber, considered a semi-synthetic fiber made from wood pulp, a natural raw material based on semi-cellulose. Although rayon is a manufactured fiber, it shares many similarities with natural fabrics such as cotton and linen. Rayon is soft, breathable, comfortable, and moisture absorbent, making it ideal for summer wear. However, like natural fibers, rayon is prone to wrinkles, creases, and tears. This fabric is often blended with other materials to achieve different properties and has seen increased demand as a substitute for cotton due to rising cotton prices.
What is Nylon?
Nylon is a synthetic fiber made from chemical by-products of petroleum, coal, and agricultural products. Often referred to as a polymer, the material used to produce nylon is called polyamides. Nylon was first produced by Wallace Carothers at the DuPont Experimental Station and became popular during World War II due to a shortage of natural fabrics like silk. Nylon is used in the manufacture of products such as stockings, swimwear, athletic wear, parachutes, tires, tents, and ropes. It is a popular fabric today due to its low cost, durability, and low maintenance, as well as its resistance to heat, tears, and stains.
What is the difference between Rayon and Nylon?
The main differences between rayon and nylon are related to their origins, uses, and properties. Rayon is a semi-synthetic fiber made from wood pulp and shares properties with natural fibers, while nylon is a synthetic fiber made from chemical by-products of petroleum, coal, and agricultural products. Rayon is commonly used for clothing and household items, while nylon is used for stockings, swimwear, sportswear, and various industrial and military applications. Rayon is prone to wrinkles and creases, while nylon is resistant to wrinkles and tears, as well as having a low moisture absorbency rate.
