Rayon (A Cellulosic Man-Made Fiber)

Rayon fiber

Composition

                    Regenerated cellulose

Physical Properties

ä    Microscopic Appearance

                        - Striations seen in viscose and high-strength rayon

- If delustered, scattered specks of pigment can be seen.

ä    Length

- Filament and staple

ä    Color

- Transparent unless dulled by pigments

ä    Luster

- High unless delustering pigment added

ä    Strength

- Fair to excellent

- Regular rayon has fair strength

- High tenacity types have good to excellent strength

ä    Elasticity

- Regular rayon is low

- High strength rayon is good

ä    Resiliency

- High wet-strength rayon is better

ä    Moisture Absorption

- Higher than natural cellulose

- Fibers swell in water

- Weaker when wet

ä    Heat

- Loses strength above 300' F

- Decomposes between 350 and 400' F

ä    Flammability

- Burns rapidly unless treated

ä    Electrical Conductivity

- Fair - static charge can be reduced with special finishes

ä    Specific Gravity

- 1.52 (similar to cotton)

Chemical Properties (similar to cotton)

·         Easily damaged by strong acids

·         Resistant to alkalies, reduction in strength if concentrated

·         Lengthy exposure to sunlight weakens the fabric

·         Greater finity for dyes than cotton