Chemlon®

Chemlon is a trade name for a synthetic polyamide fiber produced in Czechoslovakia, mainly in the Chemlon Humenné plant, starting in the 1950s. The material was designed as an alternative to Western polyamides such as nylon and silon. Its name comes from a combination of the words “chemistry” and “nylon” and was later transferred from the company name itself to the fiber and products made from it. The main raw material is caprolactam, from which polyamide 6 is obtained through polymerization. This polymer is then melted, extruded through spinnerets, and after cooling forms fine, flexible, and extremely strong fibers. Thanks to properties such as high strength, elasticity, abrasion resistance, color stability, and easy maintenance, Chemlon became very popular. It was used for yarns, stockings, blankets, carpets, sportswear, cords, ropes, and fishing lines. Its peak popularity occurred in the 1970s and 1980s, when Chemlon products were found in almost every household in the form of tapestries, hats, and socks. In the textile industry, Chemlon represented an efficient and affordable substitute for natural fibers and reflects the importance of synthetic polymers in the industrial production of the 20th century.