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2024-05-02 00:02:50

Nylon

Synthetic polymer family with diverse applications
Synthetic polymer family with diverse applications
Nylon is a versatile synthetic polymer family with various properties and applications, such as in fabric, fibers, molded parts, and food packaging films. It can be modified by blending with additives for different uses.
1899
Discovery of Nylon
In 1899, S. Gabriel and T.A. Maass reported the discovery of Nylon in their publication Berichte. This marked the initial step towards the development of Nylon as a synthetic polymer.
1900
Further Research on Nylon
In 1900, O. Wallach conducted research on Nylon as mentioned in Annalen der Chemie. This research contributed to the understanding of Nylon's properties and potential applications.
1902
Contribution to Nylon Development
A. Manasse's work in 1902, published in Berichte, played a significant role in the advancement of Nylon research. His findings added valuable insights to the properties of Nylon.
1907
Continued Exploration of Nylon
In 1907, J. von Braun's research on Nylon, published in Berichte, further expanded the knowledge on this synthetic polymer. His work paved the way for future developments in Nylon technology.
1920
DuPont's Venture into Artificial Fibers
In 1920, E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company purchased a 60% interest in Comptoir des Textiles Artificiels, a French rayon company, marking the beginning of their exploration into artificial fibers. This venture eventually led to the creation of the DuPont Fiber Company and the Rayon Department of the DuPont Company.
1926-12
DuPont's Shift to Pure Science Research
In December 1926, Charles M. A. Stine proposed a shift in DuPont's research focus from practical applications to pure science work, aiming to establish new scientific facts. Despite initial skepticism, the executive committee approved the proposal in March 1927, granting funds for research and the construction of a new laboratory.
1927
Start of DuPont's Research Project on Nylon
DuPont initiated its research project on nylon in 1927, which eventually led to the invention of the first commercially successful synthetic thermoplastic polymer. The project was part of DuPont's focus on pioneering research in chemistry.
1930
Wallace H. Carothers Joins DuPont
In 1930, Wallace H. Carothers, a young organic chemistry lecturer at Harvard University, joined DuPont to focus on polymerization research. Carothers aimed to provide evidence for the long-chain molecule theory in polymer formation, challenging existing beliefs and methods in polymer chemistry.
1931
Carothers Reports on Polyester Fibers
In 1931, Carothers presented his findings on polyester fibers at an American Chemical Society meeting, sparking rumors that DuPont had developed a new fiber comparable to silk.
1934-05-24
First Nylon
On 24 May 1934, Donald D. Coffman successfully pulled a fiber of a polymer based on an aminoethylester, ultimately creating the first nylon with elastic properties and practical advantages over polyesters.
1935-02-28
First Nylon Fabric
Dr. Wallace Cathers discovered nylon, the world's first synthetic material.
1936-02-19
W.H. Carothers memorandum to A.P. Tanberg
W.H. Carothers wrote a memorandum to A.P. Tanberg regarding the early history of polyamide fibers in 1936.
1937
Wallace Carothers' Patents
By 1937, Wallace Carothers, the creator of nylon, had nearly 50 patents to his name. Despite his significant contributions to organic chemistry, Carothers struggled with depression and self-doubt.
1938-01-29
Development of Nylon 6
In response to Carothers' work, Paul Schlack at IG Farben developed nylon 6, a different molecule based on caprolactam. This further expanded the range of nylon materials available.
1938-10-27
Introduction of Nylon Stockings at New York World's Fair
On October 27, 1938, DuPont officially introduced nylon stockings to a crowd of 4,000 middle-class women at the future site of the New York World’s Fair. Although the excitement was high, the stockings were not commercially available for another 18 months.
1939-10-24
First Public Sale of Nylon Stockings in Wilmington, Delaware
The first public sale of nylon stockings took place in Wilmington, Delaware, where 4,000 pairs were made available and sold out within three hours. This event marked the beginning of nylon's commercial availability in the market.
1939-12-15
Opening of the First Nylon Plant
The first nylon plant was opened in Seaford, Delaware, marking the beginning of commercial production of nylon on December 15, 1939.
1940-05-15
Nylon Stockings Reach National Market
On May 15, 1940, nylon stockings were made available to the national market for the first time, selling out quickly at $1.15 a pair. DuPont's production and sales of nylon saw significant growth in the following years.
1941-01-05
Nylon as Engineering Polymer
The era of synthetic materials metal replacement began with the development of nylon into an engineering polymer.
1942-01-05
Nylon in War
Nylon was utilized in various ways during the war efforts.
1942-02-11
Nylon production redirected for military use
In February 1942, DuPont shifted nylon production from consumer goods to military use during World War II. This led to a halt in the production of nylon stockings and lingerie, with most nylon being used for making parachutes and tents.
1943
Publication of H. Gastrow in Kunststoffe Journal
In 1943, H. Gastrow published an article in the Kunststoffe journal.
1944-01
Introduction of Nylon Strings for Guitars
In January 1944, classical guitarist Andrés Segovia first tried nylon strings on stage in New York. The idea was presented to him by General Lindeman of the British Embassy, who obtained the strings from the DuPont family. Segovia and string maker Albert Augustine later collaborated to develop high-quality nylon strings.
1945-08-15
End of WWII and Resumption of Nylon Stockings Production
Eight days after Japan's surrender in World War II, Du Pont announced the resumption of nylon stockings production. Newspaper headlines celebrated the end of the war and the availability of nylons for sale.
1946-06
Pittsburgh Nylon Riots
In June 1946, a significant instance of 'nylon riots' occurred in Pittsburgh, where 40,000 people lined up for over a mile to compete for 13,000 pairs of nylon stockings. This event highlighted the high demand for nylon during that period.
1950
Development of Wool-Nylon Blend by NYQMPA
In 1950, the New York Quartermaster Procurement Agency committed to developing a wool-nylon blend, contributing to the advancement of textile blends with both natural and synthetic fibers.
1951-11
Focus on Textile Blending by Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce
In November 1951, the Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce highlighted the importance of blending textiles in their inaugural address, emphasizing the significance of textile innovation.
1952
Issues with pure nylon hosiery
By 1952, problems with pure nylon stockings became evident, including fragility, discomfort, lack of absorbency, and static electricity issues. Nylon fabric was reported to decompose under certain conditions, leading to challenges in its usage.
1953
Publication of 'Chemische Textilfasern, Filme und Folien' by P. Schlack and K. Kunz
P. Schlack and K. Kunz published a work titled 'Chemische Textilfasern, Filme und Folien' in 1953, which likely discusses chemical textile fibers, films, and foils.
1954-01-05
Introduction of ZytelRNylon
In Malmo, Sweden, nylon stockings began to be inspected, and DuPont trademarked the resin 'ZytelRNylon'.
1955
DuPont's Success at the 1955 Paris Fashion Shows
DuPont achieved a significant milestone at the 1955 Paris fashion shows, where at least 14 synthetics featuring DuPont fibers appeared in gowns from renowned designers like Coco Chanel, Jean Patou, and Christian Dior.
1958
Biographical notes in Nachrichten Chem. u. Techn.
Biographical notes were published in Nachrichten Chemie und Technik in 1958.
1959
Invention of Pantyhose
In 1959, Glen Raven Mills of North Carolina introduced pantyhose, a garment that combined underpants and stockings into one. The addition of an opaque nylon top eliminated the need for multiple foundation garments.
1963
Biographical notes in Textil-Praxis
Biographical notes were published in Textil-Praxis in 1963.
1965
Development of Seamless Pantyhose
In 1965, Glen Raven Mills developed a seamless version of pantyhose that coincided with the introduction of the miniskirt trend.
1967
Quotation in Chemiefasern17
In 1967, P. Schlack was quoted in Chemiefasern17, page 961.
1970
Publication of Kunststoffe article by K. Feser, M. Glück, and H.J. Mair
In 1970, K. Feser, M. Glück, and H.J. Mair published an article in Kunststoffe journal.
1971
Publication of Kunststoffe article by C.-D. Weiske
In 1971, C.-D. Weiske published an article in Kunststoffe journal.
1973-01-05
Introduction of Glass Reinforced Nylon
DuPont introduced glass reinforced nylon, enhancing its already impressive properties.
1983
Publication of Chemiefaser-Lexikon
In 1983, the book 'Chemiefaser-Lexikon' was published by P. Schlack in the 9th edition by Deutscher Fachverlag in Frankfurt am Main.
1985
Publication of 'Polymers: The Origins and Growth of a Science' by H. Morawetz
H. Morawetz published the book 'Polymers: The Origins and Growth of a Science' in 1985, which discusses the history and development of polymers.
1986
History and Development of Nylon 6
The paper titled 'History and Development of Nylon 6' was authored by Matthies and Seydl in 1986. It discusses the historical background and evolution of Nylon 6.
1992-01-05
Introduction of Zytel Nylon
Zytel nylon was introduced.
1995-10-26
Seaford Plant Designated as National Historic Chemical Landmark
On October 26, 1995, the Seaford plant where the first nylon plant was located was recognized as a National Historic Chemical Landmark by the American Chemical Society.
2017-01-06
General Motors adopts Zytel nylon for the 3800 engine
General Motors decided to incorporate Zytel nylon into the 3800 engine after extensive development and testing. This marked a significant advancement in the use of nylon in automotive engines.
2020
Current Worldwide Production of Nylon
As of 2020, the global production of nylon is estimated to be 8.9 million tons, showcasing its continued significance in various industries.
End of the Timeline
Nylon

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Nylon

Synthetic polymer family with diverse applications
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