Vinyon
Vinyon is a synthetic fiber made from polyvinyl chloride. In some countries other than the United States, vinyon fibers are referred to as polyvinyl chloride fibers. It can bind non-woven fibers and fabrics. It was invented in 1939.
It has the same health problems associated with chlorinated polymers. In the past, Vinyon was used a substitute for plant-based filters in tea bags.
Vinyon fiber characteristics
- doesn't flame, but softens at low temperatures(55 C)
- high resistance to chemicals
- Moisture absorption is less than 0.5% and moisture regained is less than 0.1%
- crease resistant and elastic
Major vinyon fiber uses
- industrial applications as a bonding agent for non-woven fabrics and products
Production
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission definition for vinyon fiber is "A manufactured fiber in which the fiber-forming substance is any long chain synthetic polymer composed of at least 85 percent by weight of vinyl chloride units (—CH2—CHCl—)."
First U.S. commercial vinyon fiber production: 1939, FMC Corporation, Fiber Division (formerly American Viscose Corporation).