Overview of Acrylic Staple Fiber

Definition: Acrylic staple fiber (ASF) is a synthetic short fiber primarily composed of acrylonitrile (AN ≥85%). Known as "artificial wool" due to its wool-like properties.

Inventors:

• 1941: First synthesized by Bayer Labs (Germany)

• 1950: Commercialized by DuPont (brand "Orlon")

2025 ASF Industry Highlights

1. Capacity Expansion

• Jilin Chemical Fiber (China): New 150kt/year production line (June 2025), capturing 65% global capacity

• Aksa Akrilik (Turkey): $400M expansion targeting European markets

2. Price Trends

• Sinopec East China Settlement Price:

  • 1.5D fiber: ¥14,555/ton

  • 3D fiber: ¥14,555/ton (reflecting tight supply)

3. Technological Breakthroughs

• Bio-based ASF: CAS Ningbo Institute developed 30% corn-straw feedstock fiber

• Flame Retardant Upgrade: Mitsubishi Rayon's "SAFFIL" (LOI 32%)

4. Trade Policies

• India Anti-Dumping: 14% duty on Chinese ASF (effective Nov 2025)

5. Sustainability Initiatives

• GRS Certification: Shandong producer achieved GRS4.0 (50% recycled content)

• ZARA Pledge: 100% low-carbon ASF by 2025

Historical Development

Physicochemical Properties

Physical

• Density: 1.16-1.18 g/cm³ (30% lighter than wool)

• Tenacity: 2.4-3.7 g/den (elongation 26-44%)

• Lightfastness: Best among synthetics (8+ years outdoor)

Chemical

• Acid/Alkali Resistance: Stable in dilute acid/weak alkali

• Solubility: Insoluble in ethanol/benzene, soluble in DMF/acetone

• Flame Resistance: Modifiable (e.g., modacrylic self-extinguishing)

Future Outlook

1. High-end Applications:

   • Flame-retardant workwear

   • Conductive smart textiles

2. Sustainability:

   • Bio-AN (Trillium Project, USA)

3. Emerging Uses:

   • Automotive: Sound insulation (Tesla Model Y)

   • Medical: Antimicrobial hemostatic fibers

Key Applications