Triacetate fiber was first synthesized in 1950 and began to be commercially produced in the United States a few years later. Domestic production of the material, however, ceased in 1985, though it continues to be fabricated in other parts of the world.

Derived from cellulose, triacetate is formed by combining cellulose with acetate from acetic acid and acetate anhydride. The cellulose acetate is then dissolved in a mixture of methylene chloride and methanol for spinning. Spinning, the oldest method of preparing man-made fibers, involves pumping a viscous polymer solution through a filter and subsequently passing it through the tiny holes of a spinnerette. Afterward, the solvent is removed and only a synthetic fiber remains.

Triacetate fiber is sometimes subject to static cling, but exhibits several favorable qualities. The material is shrink, stain, and wrinkle resistant, and may be machine or hand washed. It also displays excellent drapeability and provides exceptional pleat retention. Due to its no-fuss care requirements and its shape retention capabilities, triacetate fiber is frequently found in blouses, skirts, pants, and special occasion apparel, as well as draperies and upholstery.

BACK TO THE DIC IMAGE GALLERY

Questions or comments? Send us an email.

© 1998-2022 by Michael W. Davidson and The Florida State University. All Rights Reserved. No images, graphics, scripts, or applets may be reproduced or used in any manner without permission from the copyright holders. Use of this website means you agree to all of the Legal Terms and Conditions set forth by the owners.

This website is maintained by our
Graphics & Web Programming Team
in collaboration with Optical Microscopy at the
National High Magnetic Field Laboratory.

Last modification: Friday, Nov 13, 2015 at 01:19 PM

Access Count Since April 22, 2003: 27502

For more information on microscope manufacturers,
use the buttons below to navigate to their websites: