Spandex or elastane is a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity (stretchability). It is stronger and more durable than rubber, its major non-synthetic competitor. It was invented in 1959 by DuPont chemist Joseph Shivers. When first introduced it revolutionized many areas of the clothing industry.

Spandex is the preferred name in North America and Australia, while elastane is most often used elsewhere, such as in Europe. It turns out that "spandex" was coined from an anagram of "expands." A well-known trademark for spandex or elastane is INVISTA's brand name Lycra®. Other trademarks include Elaspan (also INVISTA's), Dorlastan (Bayer) and Linel (Fillattice).

Spandex fiber characteristics

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Spun from a block copolymer, these fibers exploit the high crystallinity and hardness of polyurethane segments, yet remain "rubbery" due to alternating segments of polyethylene glycol ^*. This yields the following combination of materials properties:

• can be stretched over 500% without breaking
• able to be stretched repetitively and still recover original length
• lightweight
• abrasion resistant
• poor strength, but stronger and more durable than rubber
• soft, smooth, and supple
• resistant to body oils, perspiration, lotions, and detergents
• no static or pilling problems

Major spandex fiber uses

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• Apparel and clothing articles where stretch is desired, generally for comfort and fit, such as:
  • athletic, aerobic, and exercise apparel
  • wetsuits
  • swimsuits/bathing suits
  • competitive swimwear
  • brassiere straps and bra side panels
  • ski pants
  • slacks
  • hosiery
  • leggings
  • socks
  • belts
  • underwear
• Compression garments such as:
  • surgical hose
  • support hose
  • cycling shorts
  • foundation garments
• Shaped garments such as bra cups

Production

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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: INVISTA; Bayer Corporation; RadiciSpandex Corporation

Fiction

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In comic books, superheroes and superheroines commonly wear costumes made of spandex.

See also

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• Textile
• Spandex fetishism
• Darlex

External links

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• Elaspan® spandex – Company website
• Lycra® spandex – Company website

Copolymers | Textiles | Synthetic fibers

Elastan | Elastano | Elastam | Spandex | Elastaani | Elastan