Synthetic fabric origins

[Joe Minter]

What is the difference between nylon, polyester and polypropylene, as they are used in fabric manufacturing?

[jennymac]

Nylon  -a. Any of a family of high-strength, resilient synthetic polymers, the molecules of which contain the recurring amide group CONH. b. Cloth or yarn made from one of these synthetic materials.

Polyester -Any of numerous synthetic polymers produced chiefly by reaction of dibasic acids with dihydric alcohols and used primarily as light, strong, weather-resistant resins in boat hulls, textile fibres, adhesives, and molded parts.

polypropylene - Any of various thermoplastic resins that are polymers of propylene. They are hard and tough, and are used to make molded articles and fibers.