About 75 years of synthetic fiber rope history

This paper is a survey review of the development of synthetic fiber ropes during the past approximately 75 years. It is partially based on discussions at a recent International Rope Technology Workshop and on the authors' recollections. It is also based on an extensive file and literature review. Nylon was discovered in the late 1930's and was first introduced into fiber ropes during World War II. Since that time a number of other synthetic fiber materials have been discovered and used in ropes. These include polyester, polypropylene, aramid, high modulus polyethylene (HMPE), and liquid crystal aromatic polyester ('CAP). Improvements continue to be made to the properties of these rope-making synthetic fibers. But no other significant new rope fiber making material has been introduced in the last 25 years. The first synthetic fiber ropes were small braided parachute cords and three-strand tow ropes for gliders, made of nylon during World War II. Many other useful rope structures have been developed since that time. These include 8-strain plaited, 12-strand braided, double braid, multi-strand laid (wire rope construction), parallel fiber and parallel subrope constructions. The earliest ropes were made of natural fibers, before recorded history. With the development of steel wire ropes in the 18th century, the use of natural fiber ropes declined. But now synthetic fiber ropes have almost completely replaced natural fiber in all uses and have replaced wire ropes in many mooring applications. Without large, high-strength synthetic fiber ropes, it would be difficult or impossible to explore for and produce oil in very deep water. The paper includes a timeline showing the evolution of synthetic fiber rope materials, rope structures, and rope developments and uses. Each of the contributing authors has lived through these 75 years and has spent many of these years in careers related to the subject. This paper will be of particular interest to users of synthetic fiber ropes and mooring systems.