If you have no idea what spandex fabric is, you may heard of its other name: lycra. Yes, they are the same thing. Then what is spandex/lycra exactly, and what is it used for? Let me answer the question through this blog.
Table of Contents
What is spandex/lycra?
Spandex is a synthetic fiber, a manmade material created through chemical processes. It is similar to natural fibers but surpasses them in many performance aspects.
The process of spandex fiber formation:
1. Raw Material Preparation:
- Combine polyether glycol(elastic base) with diisocyanate (chemical activator)
2. Spinning Solution preparation:
Add ethylenediamine (stretch booster)
Mix in additives:
- Antioxidants (prevent aging)
- Delusterants (reduce shine)
3. Fibers Spinning
Main Method: Dry Spinning
- Push solution through a steel plate with many tiny holes (5x thinner than hair)
- Blow hot air to evaporate solvents
- Bundle threads together
And there is another New EcoMethod: Melt Spinning
- Heat ingredients directly (no chemicals needed)
- More sustainable but a little lower stretchy, can save 40% of energy
4. Finishing Process
- Oiling: Reduces friction coefficient
- Heat-setting: make it stability
- Winding: Roll up at high speed
5. Quality Tests
- Stretch Extend 58x without breaking
- Recovery Bounce back to 95% of the original shape
- Chlorine Resistance Survive 100hrs in pool water
what is spandex’s advantage?
One of the most known advantages of spandex is its exceptional elasticity, which is why people also call it elastane. How much elasticity does it have? Scientific data indicate that:
- spandex can stretch 500%800% of the original length, which is double the rubber;
- spandex can return to shape after over 100 stretches;
- spandex’s elastic modulus is 60% lower than natural latex, which makes it softer.
What is Spandex’s history?
- Spandex has a long history dating back to 1959 when Joseph Shivers invented it. It is early used for girdles and hosiery.
- At 1970s1980s, with the popularity of aerobics, spandex was boosted in dancewear and swimsuits, and at 1the 984 Olympics, Team USA’s spandex uniforms got a lot of attention.
- After that, many yoga brands started blending 15%25%spandex into leggings, 2000s, casual sports style was becoming more and more popular, it made spandex clothing common.
- Nowadays, spandex has become one of the most celebrated fabrics, spandex blend fabric has received a lot of favorable responses from many clothing manufacturers. (here is a fun fact:85% of activewear now contains spandex)
Application Tiers
Spandex% | Elastic Performance | Common Applications |
| 5%10% | Basic stretch | Tshirt necklines/Denim waistbands |
| 15%20% | Activeweargrade stretch | Yoga pants/Running tights |
| 25%30% | Professional compression | Compression socks/Recovery wear |
what is spandex fabric commonly used for?
Sport wear:
Spandex is one of the major fabrics of athletic wear, including workout clothes, yoga outfits, and so on. The stretch and recovery properties of spandex fabric make cloth comfortable, soft, and flexible.
Swimwear:
Spandex is exceptional for making swimwear, it wraps your body without restriction when you swim in the water.
Underwear:
Also, spandex is commonly used for underwear, it provides both support and comfort and, at the same time can maintain the shape over time.
Where is spandex produced?
Although spandex is produced worldwide, China is one of the largest producers, China has the mature and perfect textile industrial technology to support the production of spandex fabric.
Conclusion:
Spandex fabric has a very significant influence on the clothing industry. It is a versatile material and can be used for textile projects like underwear, sportswear, or other clothes that need support and flexibility.
Wingtex is a textile company focused on spandex fabric, we always try our best to guarantee the innovation of spandex fabric and the stability of delivery, if you want customized service, we will use all energy to produce and adjust until you are satisfied. Do not hesitate to contact us, looking forward to cooperating with you!
