Chapter 24, Problem 13STP

To determine

To state: One advantage and one disadvantage of nylon.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

Nylons are a type of synthetic polymer, manufactured in labs to be used as synthetic fibers.

Advantage:

Nylons have a wide range of use in clothes, jackets etcetera. Some special nylons are also used to make fireproof clothing. The main advantage of using nylons instead of natural fibers like silk is that nylon can be easily produced in the laboratory with desired properties and in bulks. On the other hand, the manufacturing process of silk is very long and the end products obtained is very less as compared to nylon produced in the same time.

Disadvantage:

Nylons being synthetic fibers are non-biodegradable while silk being a natural fiber is biodegradable. Hence, nylons are harmful for the nature.

Conclusion:

Advantage − Nylons can be produced in bulk amounts in laboratories.

Disadvantage − Nylons are non-biodegradable.