Chemicals Used as Spin-Finishes for Man-Made Fibers

The necessity and difficulty of developing an ideal formulation of a chemical coating for optimum man-made fiber processing on textile equipment under varying conditions is stressed. In the absence of such a coating, the fiber has little economic value. The phrase "spin-finish" is defined. The various compounds chiefly used are listed by chemical classes under luhricants without surface activity, external antistatic agents for surface of fiters, and emulsifiers having lubricating function. The necessary properties of components and blends are discussed. Patents covering spin-finishes are reviewed for the years following the introduction of the first man-made fiber nylon in 1938. Reference is made to concepts found in new patents for internal antistatic agents and for new fibers. Suggestions for synthesis of new compounds with enhanced properties are made. The bibliography covers 80 patent and literature references.