Ardil

Description

[ICI, England] A brand name for a type of regenerated protein fibers made from ground nuts. In 1935, Astbury and Chibnall suggested that vegetable protein could be dissolved in urea then the solution extruded through spinnerets into coagulating baths (Cook 1984). Groundnuts, such as peanuts or Monkey nuts, were used for the protein. The process was developed by ICI (Britain) and Ardil was commercially produced from 1951 to 1957. Groundnut protein fibers were very similar in characteristics to wool. They were primarily used in blended fabrics with wool, cotton, and rayon. Ardil blends with wool were used for sweaters, blankets, carpets, and felts. Ardil blends with cotton or rayon were used for sport coats, dresses, shirts, and carpets.

Synonyms and Related Terms

groundnut protein fiber; fibras proteínicas de cacahuete (Esp.)

Risks

• Nonflammable.
• Biodegradable.

Physical and Chemical Properties

• Resistant to acids and most organic solvents.
• Degraded by alkalis.
• Fiber is smooth, slightly striated.
• Cross section is circular.
• Tenacity = 0.7-0.9 g/denier;
• Elongation = 40-60% (dry); 80 % (wet);
• Moisture regain = 12-15%.
• Density = 1.31 g/ml
• Refractive Index = 1.53

Resources and Citations

• Joan Kiplinger 'Vintage Fabrics' at Fabrics.net

• J.Gordon Cook, Handbook of Textile Fibres:II Man-made Fibres, Merrow Publishing Co. , Durham, England

• Website: www.fabrics.net

• Winchester School of Art at http://www.wsa.soton.ac.uk/textile-conservation-centre/research-projects/ardil.asp - produced at Ardeer in Scotland from 1938-1946 then again from 1951-1957.