Polyolefin - Business Issues |
In the past, nylon fiber dominated the carpet industry with over 80% share of the US market. Although nylon retains a leading 60% share today, PPs gain, now comprise a 35% share.
Other expanding markets for PP fiber are the industrial sector.
The unique chemical and hydrophilic properties of PP fiber allow it to be ideal for many industrial and civil engineering applications.
In terms of technological advancements PP producers have made great strides by improving the fibers viability in relation to other fibers such as nylon and polyester.
Until recently PP fiber could not be dyed. That is changing. Commercial dyeable PP fiber may come in the market place in the very near future.
PP fiber properties for ability to recover from repeated bending is poor. This restricts PP fiber in the cut pile carpet construction.
A PP copolymer may solve this problem in the near future