Raw White Acrylic Staple Fiber Tow Staple Fiber
Description
Acrylic Staple Fiber (ASF) is a synthetic, man-made fiber created from polymers derived from petroleum. The term "staple" refers to its form: it is produced in short, discrete lengths (like cotton or wool), as opposed to continuous filament fibers (like silk).
It is most famous for being the primary synthetic substitute for wool, as it mimics wool's warmth, softness, and bulk without the high cost, allergenic properties, or special cleaning requirements.
The production process involves several key steps:
Polymerization: Acrylonitrile monomers are chemically reacted to form the long-chain polymer polyacrylonitrile.
Dissolving: The PAN polymer is dissolved in a powerful solvent to create a thick, syrupy solution called dope.
Spinning (Extrusion): This dope is forced through a spinneret (a showerhead-like device with tiny holes) into a coagulation bath. This bath solidifies the streams of liquid into continuous solid filaments.
Drawing: The filaments are stretched (drawn), which aligns the polymer molecules and increases the fiber's strength and durability.
Crimping: To give the smooth filament bulk, loft, and a wool-like texture, it is crimped (given a wavy pattern).
Cutting: Finally, the continuous tow (a large bundle of thousands of filaments) is cut into short, staple-length pieces.
Acrylic staple fiber is prized for a specific set of properties:
Wool-Like: Its most defining feature. It is warm, soft, and bulky.
Lightweight: Significantly lighter than wool, making garments less heavy.
Weaknesses:
Pilling: Can be prone to pilling (forming small balls of fiber on the surface) with friction.
Heat Sensitivity: Can melt or scorch under high iron heat, as it is a plastic-based fiber.
Less Breathable: Its low moisture absorbency can make it feel less breathable compared to natural fibers.
Hypoallergenic: An excellent alternative for people who are allergic to wool.
Colorfastness: Excellent ability to hold dye, resulting in vibrant, long-lasting colors that are often more brilliant than those achievable on wool.
Quick-Drying: Has a very low moisture absorbency, meaning it dries much faster than wool or cotton.
Resistant to Moths and Mildew: Unlike natural fibers, it is not susceptible to damage from moths, mildew, or insects.
Durable and Shape-Retaining: Resistant to wear and tear and generally holds its shape well.
Packing and Delivery
Our Service
1. OEM Manufacturing Support – Customize products and packaging according to your requirements
2. Sample Orders Available – Test our quality before bulk orders.
3.24-Hour Response Guarantee – Prompt replies to all inquiries.
4. Dedicated Order Tracking – Regular updates every 48 hours until delivery. Post-delivery, we assist with quality checks and promptly resolve any issues.
Application
Apparel:
Knitwear: Sweaters, cardigans, beanies, scarves, and gloves.
Fleece Wear: Jackets, hoodies, and athletic wear.
Socks: Often blended with nylon and wool.
Linings for boots and coats.
Home Furnishings:
Blankets and Throws: Very common use due to its warmth and softness.
Upholstery and Furniture Fabrics.
Pile Fabrics: For faux fur, stuffed toys, and carpets.
Curtains and Draperies.
Industrial Applications:
Asbestos Replacement: Used in gaskets and packings.
Concrete Reinforcement: To reduce cracking in concrete.
Filtration Fabrics.