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(b) MAN-MADE FIBERS
Man-made fibers are new in the carpet field and are rapidly growing •n importance. They have greatly widened the range of carpet available and have added much in decorative appeal. Developed especially for carpet, they are four to ten times heavier than corresponding clothing fibers. They are used alone or with other fibers. Wear and use tests show that man-made fiber blends pass rigid requirements.
Carpet Rayon is specially engineered for use in carpet manufacture.The filaments are comparable to wool fibers in diameter and are available in smooth or crimped form.
Contribution of Rayon to Carpet
(1) Durability: Scientific wear tests show that high quality carpet rayon is a strong, tough fiber with satisfactory abrasion resistance.
(2) Softness: Carpet rayon makes a luxurious pile. In dense construction, it tends to resist crushing if cleaned regularly with vacuum cleaner and carpet sweeper.
(3) Economy: Since carpet rayon is a relatively inexpensive fiber, its use alone or mixed with wool or other fibers has reduced the cost of good quality carpet.
(4) Clean ability: Rayon is a clear smooth fiber. Naturally, in light colors it soils more readily than in dark. Cleaning by a reliable professional cleaner restores the beauty of rayon carpet.
(5) Color: Carpet rayon is a pure white fiber, and consequently can be dyed any color. The fiber's construction enables it to completely absorb dyes and hold them fast. The fiber can also be produced in colored, rather than white form. This is known as "solution dyed" carpet rayon. Rayon carpet is available in an exceptionally wide range of colors.
Nylon enters the carpet field with an enviable reputation for handsome appearance and long wear. Its form and quality are under precise laboratory control. It has therefore been possible to produce nylon filament "tailor-made" for carpet and rugs. Smooth nylon, tightly twisted, lends itself to pile texture effects. It gives a bright luster to the carpet. Crimp-set nylon produces a bulky yarn used for thick, resilient pile. The high crimp gives a dull finish. Nylon is the most expensive fiber used in carpet construction, but its very desirable properties offset the original cost. Blends of nylon with other fibers are also widely used for carpet. Nylon offers increased durability or wear life to the pile, but at least 20 per cent or more nylon is needed in a blend to obtain significant benefits.
Contribution of Nylon to Carpet
(1) Durability: The fiber is very tough and has high resistance to abrasion. Severe floor tests in golf clubs, hotels, luxury liners and else-where show that nylon carpet has remarkable wearing qualities.
