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The light-scattering properties of single fibers of wool, hair, and jute and filaments of nylon, terylene, and glass have been studied by scanning along their lengths with a He-Ne laser beam. The light-scattering profiles of the natural fibers suggest uniformity in the optical properties of the fiber materials and are, therefore, closely related to the geometry of the fibers. The optical properties of nylon and terylene, on the other hand, are observed to be very nonuniform along the filament. This nonuniformity is attributed to variations in (a) the orientation of birefringent domains of the filament material with the filament axis and (b) the crystallinity or packing density of the material. Because of this lack of uni formity it is not possible to define optical and dimensional parameters that are constants for these filaments from light- scattering data over any appreciable length (Ca > 0.5 mm). Glass fibers have light-scattering properties that vary along their length in a way that is determined by their method of formation. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Since the advent of the first true synthetic fiber, nylon, in 1939, the man-made fiber industry has made great strides in its understanding of the structural element which make up its products. Polymer chemists have been able to vary such parameters as fiber crystallinity, modulus, strength and elongation, shrinkage, cross section and dye receptivity. As the polymer chemist has gained mastery of the structural elements of his fibers, the textile engineer has come to understand more fully the relationship between built-in fiber characteristics and fabric performance. And so, today, the man-made fiber industry literally "tailors" its products to meet given end uses. Polymer scientists have altered the structure of their fibers so that they will be self-crimpable. The hand and luster of fibers have been altered and made more silk-like through modification of cross section. Most recently, polymer mixtures are spun into single filaments in order to improve luster, soil-hiding characteristics and performance. Each of these developments took place to meet a specific need in the marketplace. A description of these needs and their solutions will be presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]