High-Strength Staple Fiber.-Avisco XL, a new, high-strength staple fiber, has been announced by American Viscose Corporation.
Characterized as the greatest improvement in rayon since its invention, yarns in the new staple are 70 per cent stronger when wet and 40 per cent stronger in the dry-conditioned state then conventional rayons.
Dr. Herschel H. Cudd, Vice President in charge of Research and Development, indicated that the new fiber has broad market applications in industrial uses as well as in apparel and home-furnishings.
"In comparable construction and weave," he said, "Avisco XL fabrics have 25 per cent more breaking strength and 33 per cent more tear strength than cotton."
This predicts greater serviceability in industrial ducks, tarps, and similar fabrics.
Avisco XL has been spun at American Viscose's Textile Research Department into yarns as fine as 60/l with 1.5 denier, l&" staple.
Because of increased extensility, the new fiber is compatible with the acrylics and polyesters (the non-cellulosic fibers) for blends.
This indicates new, lighter-weight, minimum care fabrics with the draping characteristics of regular rayon.
The product has been in successful pilot plant production for over six months and now limited commercial quantities are available for selected end uses.