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Title
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Spandex
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Description
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Spandex is a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity. It is made from a polyurethane polymer and is typically produced through a dry-spinning manufacturing process. Spandex fibers can stretch several times their original length and return to their original shape, making them ideal for garments that require flexibility and form-fitting properties. The fiber was introduced in the late 1950s and quickly became popular in sportswear, swimwear, and stretch fabrics. Spandex is rarely used alone and is often blended with other fibers such as cotton or polyester to provide stretch. Environmental concerns include its petroleum origin and limited recyclability.
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Alternative Title
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Elastane; Lycra
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Bibliographic Citation
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Tortora, Phyllis G., and Sara B. Marcketti. Survey of Textiles.
Image: https://micro.magnet.fsu.edu/optics/olympusmicd/galleries/darkfield/lycraspandex.html
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Creator
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Joseph Shivers; DuPont
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Date
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1958
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Source
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DuPont Textile History Archives
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Spatial Coverage
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United States
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Subject
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spandex;
elastane;
stretch textiles;
polyurethane fiber;
synthetic fibers
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Type
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Synthetic fiber
