Nylon 6,6 was first developed in 1935 by W.H. Carothers at DuPont and patented in 1938 for use as a textile fiber. It was originally given the name Fiber #66. The fibers are known to be strong, tough, and elastic. Importantly, as opposed to traditional fibers such as cotton, wool, and rayon, nylon fibers are glossy. They are extruded through a spinneret with a circular or trilobal cross section shape. Nylon 6,6 fibers can be used individually, i.e., as monofilaments, for brushes, surgical sutures, tennis strings, and fishing lines. Nylon 6,6 fibers are used for clothing, carpets, tire cords, conveyor belts, and brushes. Nylon 6,6 exhibits excellent dyeability and are twice as durable as Cotton (see Canvasetc.com). Nylon is sometimes coated with plastic, such as vinyl, to produce thin, lightweight waterproof fabrics.
