Send a comment on this item to LII: Send a comment on this item to LII staff, who on weekdays will usually reply within 24 hours. A Short History of Manufactured Fibers Overview of the development of synthetic fibers from the "first patent for 'artificial silk' [that] was granted in ... 1855," to the 1992 introduction of lyocell.  Highlights include the development of rayon, nylon, and polyester. Also includes a brief discussion of safety (flammability) and energy issues. (By 1973, "the industry was using but 1% of the Nation's petroleum supply to provide two-thirds of all fibers used by American textile mills.") Includes a timeline. From the American Fiber Manufacturers Association. http://www.fibersource.com/f-tutor/history.htm Asterisk * indicates required field. Your Name Your Email Address * We will not sell or provide your email address to anyone else. Comment * Enter the verification code as it is shown in the box below. This helps prevent automated submissions. *