On this day in 1938, the American chemical company DuPont announced the creation of a revolutionary new synthetic fibre — nylon. This innovation marked a turning point in material science, transforming industries ranging from textiles to engineering, and laying the foundation for the modern age of synthetic polymers.
The company behind the discovery
Founded in 1802 by Éleuthère Irénée du Pont, DuPont originally produced gunpowder before evolving into one of the world’s largest and most influential chemical companies. By the early 20th century, DuPont had diversified into industrial chemicals, dyes, and materials research, becoming a leader in innovation.
The birth of nylon
The invention of nylon was the result of intensive research led by Wallace Hume Carothers, a brilliant chemist hired by DuPont in the late 1920s to explore polymer chemistry. After years of experimentation, Carothers and his team synthesised a long-chain polymer known as polyamide 6,6 — the first fully synthetic fibre made entirely from petrochemicals, rather than natural materials like silk or cotton.
DuPont introduced nylon to the public with great fanfare, first showcasing it at the 1939 New York World’s Fair. It was marketed as a durable, elastic, and affordable alternative to silk, particularly for women’s stockings — giving rise to the famous “nylons.”
Evolution and uses
Over the decades, nylon has evolved into a family of materials, including Nylon 6, Nylon 6,6, and specialised high-performance variants used in engineering and manufacturing. It is now a common component in:
- Clothing and fabrics (stockings, sportswear, outdoor gear)
- Automotive parts (engine components, fuel lines)
- Industrial materials (ropes, nets, conveyor belts)
- Consumer goods (toothbrush bristles, luggage, carpets)
Nylon’s combination of strength, flexibility, and resistance to wear and chemicals has made it one of the most versatile materials ever developed.
Modern manufacturing and global impact
Today, nylon is produced by numerous companies around the world, including BASF, Invista, Ascend Performance Materials, and Toray Industries. Global nylon production exceeds 7 million tonnes annually, with a market value estimated at over £30 billion.
Efforts are now being made to reduce nylon’s environmental footprint. Innovations in bio-based nylons and recycling technologies are emerging to make the material more sustainable in response to growing environmental awareness.
Legacy
The invention of nylon stands as one of the defining achievements of 20th-century chemistry. It not only revolutionised consumer products but also symbolised the promise of science and innovation during an era of rapid industrial and technological change.
From silk substitute to engineering staple — nylon remains a thread that connects science, industry, and everyday life.
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