Polyvinyl-Chloride Fiber

a synthetic fiber formed from solutions of polyvinyl chloride, chlorinated polyvinyl chloride resins, or copolymers of vinyl chloride.

Polyvinyl-chloride fibers are formed by dry or wet spinning. They are highly resistant to chemicals and have very low heat and electrical conductivity. They also are flameproof and resistant to the action of microorganisms. Fibers not subjected to heat setting are characterized by high shrinkage (up to 55 percent in boiling water).

Polyvinyl-chloride fibers are used in the production of filter fabrics, flame-resistant drapery, special industrial garments, bonded materials, and thermal insulation materials used at low temperatures. Their capacity of accumulating high electrostatic charge make them suitable for hospital linen. In blends with other fibers, polyvinyl-chloride fibers are often used for producing a shrinkage effect (in the production of high-density fabrics, embossed fabrics, rugs, artificial leather, and fluffy knitted items).

Polyvinyl-chloride fibers are produced in the form of continuous threads or staple fibers in many countries. They are known by the trade names Khlorin (USSR), Saran and Vinyon (USA), Rhovyl (France), and Teviron (Japan). In 1973, world production of polyvinyl-chloride fibers accounted for 1.5–2 percent of the total production of synthetic fibers.