Comparative Properties of Synthetic Fibers
| UV stabilized | Elongation % | Melting point, C | Specific gravity | Water absorption, % | Buoyancy | Chem. resistance | Abrasion resitance | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dyneema HMPE | very good | 2-5% | 144-152 | 0,98 | 0% | Floats | Excellent | Excellent |
| Nylon PA | good | 30% | 215 | 1,14 | 1,3-8% | Sinks | Good | Very good |
| Poliester PES | good | 13% | 265 | 1,38 | < 1,0% | Sinks | Good | Excellent |
| Polethylene PE | poor | 15-25% | 130-135 | 0,95 | < 0,01% | Floats | Excellent | Good |
| Polyprophylene PP | poor | 20-40% | 160-170 | 0,91 | < 0,01% | Floats | Excellent | Poor |
| Danline | good | 14-18% | 165 | 0,91 | 0% | Floats | Excellent | Good |
- HMPE / Dyneema
A premium super-fiber featuring incredible strength that outperforms steel on a weight-for-weight basis. It absorbs virtually no water, boasts exceptional abrasion and chemical resistance, and exhibits minimal elongation for maximum dimensional stability. Since it floats on water, it is ideal for heavy-duty marine operations, specialized netting, and high-performance ropes.
- Nylon (PA)
An exceptionally elastic and dynamic fiber known for its excellent shock-absorbing capabilities. Nylon is heavier than water (sinks) and has high moisture absorption, which causes it to lose a portion of its strength when wet. Due to its very good abrasion resistance, it is widely used for towing lines, safety equipment, and industrial sewing threads.
- Polyester (PES)
One of the most reliable and versatile technical fibers available. It is heavier than water (sinks) but, unlike nylon, absorbs almost no moisture, retaining identical strength and shape in both wet and dry conditions. Featuring excellent UV resistance, outstanding abrasion resistance, and low elongation, it is the standard choice for yachting ropes, construction nets, and mooring lines.
- Polyethylene (PE)
A lightweight fiber with a waxy texture that absorbs zero water and floats exceptionally well. It offers excellent chemical resistance but has a low melting point and moderate UV resistance unless chemically stabilized. It is most commonly utilized in commercial fishing nets, lightweight utility ropes, and agricultural twines.
- Polypropylene (PP)
The most economical and lightweight synthetic fiber, characterized by its excellent buoyancy and zero water absorption. PP provides great chemical resistance but is sensitive to friction (prone to fuzzing) and UV degradation. Due to its cost-efficiency and floating properties, it is extensively used for general-purpose ropes, buoy lines, and packaging twines.
- Danline (DAN)
A high-tech co-polymer fiber made from a blend of polypropylene and polyethylene, engineered to overcome the limitations of standard PP. Danline floats perfectly but is significantly stronger, better protected against UV rays, and offers superior abrasion resistance compared to regular PP. This makes it highly popular for industrial commercial fishing nets and heavy marine ropes.