Ultrasonic Waves Make New Nylons Softer

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30215, 21 August 1963, Page 2

Ultrasonic Waves Make New Nylons Softer

Ultrasonic waves have been used in the manufacture of a new type at nylon stocking which will be available to New Zealand women shortly. The stockings are being manufactured by Prestige (N.Z.), Ltd., which holds the only New Zealand licence for the process. A demonstration of the properties of the stockings was given at a press reception in Christchurch last evening.

Nylon in its original form was a single filament yarn, said the company's hosiery sales manager (Mr E. R Brunell). By bombarding the knitted nylon yarn with ultrasonic waves the molecular structure was altered to a multi-filament structure. This breaking of the yarn made it softer, with greater elasticitv, and a permanent dull finish, be said. Nylon in its original form did not absorb moisture. In its multi -filament form it did so. This, and the greater amount of air-circulation allowed by the treated yarn, made the stockings much more comfortable to wear in hot weather.

Increased elasticity allowed better fit, less strain on the stockings when bending or sitting, and made broken threads less likely if the stocking was snagged. The terms “denier” and “gauge" will not be used for the stockings. The first ones sold will be "sheer.” Other ranges will be added later. Three colours will be avail-

able at first. More would be added to follow fashion colour trends, said Mr N. G. Macauley, merchandise director of the company. He said the stockings were proving successful in Britain. America. Europe, and Australia.