Synthetic fibre from oil. A synthetic fibre that possess wool-like properties. Currently 75% of acrylic fibre production is used in clothing manufacture, seeing applications in range of products where it is suitable for use in knitwear. Acrylic fibres can be manufactured to have high bulk and are then ideal for use where good thermal insulation is a pre-requisite. Modacrylics are acrylic fibres that are manufactured with inherent fire retardant properties and are ideal where these are required.

Wide range of woven and knitted fabrics. Generally the fibre used in garments will be as staple. Though predominantly available as 100% fibre, it can be blended with other fibres such as wool. The majority of application of acrylic fibres in corporate clothing will be as knitwear.

White through to black possible. Bleaching acrylic fibres is best carried out using a chlorine dioxide based bleach. Acrylics fibres can be dyed using disperse and basic dyes. Pigment dyed fibres are also available where the pigments are added to the spinning dope prior to fibre extrusion. These will have a uniform colour throughout the fibre cross section. It can be dyed to bright colours with excellent colour fastness.

Generally good. Fabrics produced from acrylic fibres are generally considered to have good dimensional stability, however this will be influenced by the nature of the fabric construction. Loose knits may suffer if hang to dry.

Poor resistance. Acrylic fabrics are often susceptible to pilling and suffer from poor abrasion resistance.

Rapid regain and loss possible. Acrylic fibres show a low level of moisture regain, approximately 2%

Warm wash or dry-clean. Acrylic garments may be washed or dry-cleaned. Machine washing with a warm water cycle is recommended with the use of a fabric conditioner to reduce static. Acrylic garments can be tumble-dried but this should be carried out at a low temperature setting with the garments being removed as soon as they are dry. Knitted acrylics should be dried flat to prevent the garments becoming misshapen. Drying over radiators is not recommended. When there is a need to iron the garments a moderate heat setting should be used.

95% of production into knitwear. Apparel - sweaters, socks, fleece, circular knit apparel, leisurewear.

Not biodegradable & may generate noxious fumes on burning. Garments made from acrylic fibres can be re-used. The fibres are resistant to biodegradation and therefore disposal to any process reliant on this, is not viable and landfill would be needed. Incineration is a possibility however conditions must be such as to prevent the formation of toxic by-products such as cyanide, from the fibres.

Dolan, Dralon, Courtelle, Leacryl, Orlon.

Generally used as an alternative to wool.