Acrylic fiber synthesis processes have one unique characteristic all are different. In contrast to other manmade fibers, the properties of acrylic fibers can be substantially modified by changes in the polymer composition, the use of different comonomers and by unique spinning systems, to name a few. Initial application of acrylic fiber was textiles. However, early workers also recognized that the excellent environmental and chemical resistance of acrylics made them attractive for specialty nonwovens and papers. The last decade has seen a major emphasis by several acrylic producers to develop higher performance fibers and new fiber architectures for specific industrial and technical applications. This paper presents a general overview of the technology and applications of both conventional and second generation acrylic fibers as well as newly developed acrylic pulps and fibrillated fibers. It is an objective of this discussion to provide the reader with sufficient information to permit his further consideration and evaluation of acrylic fibers in specialty nonwoven applications.
