Acrylic Fiber  

Acrylic Tow Fiber
Acrylic Staple Fiber

First U.S. Commercial Acrylic Fiber Production: 1950, DuPont Company

Current U.S. Acrylic Fiber Producers:Sterling Fibers

Federal Trade Commission Definition for Acrylic Fiber: A manufactured fiber in which the fiberforming substance is any long-chain synthetic polymer composed of at least 85% by weight of acrylonitrile units (-CH2-CH[CN]-)x. (Complete FTC Fiber Rules here.)

Basic Principles of Acrylic Fiber Production — Acrylic fibers are produced from acrylonitrile, a petrochemical. The acrylonitrile is usually combined with small amounts of other chemicals to improve the ability of the resulting fiber to absorb dyes. Some acrylic fibers are dry spun and others are wet spun. Acrylic fibers are used in staple or tow form. For a detailed production flowchart (wet and dry spun), go here.

Acrylic fibers are modified to give special properties best suited for particular end-uses. They are unique among synthetic fibers because they have an uneven surface, even when extruded from a round-hole spinneret.

Acrylic Fiber Characteristics
Outstanding wickability & quick drying to move moisture from body surface 
Flexible aesthetics for wool-like, cotton-like, or blended appearance 
Easily washed, retains shape 
Resistant to moths, oil, and chemicals 
Dyeable to bright shades with excellent fastness 
Superior resistance to sunlight degradation 

Some Major Acrylic Fiber Uses
Apparel: Sweaters, socks, fleece wear, circular knit apparel, sportswear and childrens wear 
Home Furnishings: Blankets, area rugs, upholstery, pile; luggage, awnings, outdoor furniture 
Other Uses: Craft yarns, sail cover cloth, wipe cloths 
Industrial Uses: Asbestos replacement; concrete and stucco reinforcement 

 

General Acrylic Fiber Care Tips

Wash delicate items by hand in warm water. Static electricity may be reduced by using a fabric softener in every third or fourth washing. Gently squeeze out water, smooth or shake out garment and let dry on a non-rust hanger. (Sweaters, however, should be dried flat.) 
When machine washing, use warm water and add a fabric softener during the final rinse cycle. 
Machine dry at a low temperature setting. Remove garments from dryer as soon as tumbling cycle is completed. 
If ironing is required, use a moderately warm iron. (For specific instructions, refer to garment's sewn-in care label.)