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Spandex is known as a miracle fibre. An attempt is made to understand the speciality of this particular fibre. Spandex is a synthetic fibre known for its exceptional elastic nature, and is stronger and more durable comparatively over rubber. Also known as 'elastane', this fibre was invented by a chemist named Joseph Shivers in 1959. It has much more elasticity than rubber and can stretch upto 500% of its natural shape. It started a revolution in women's clothing by the manufacture of intimate apparels that did not hurt. This invention brought a new era in the clothing sector later on, and is on the leading edge of fashion today, being used in men's and women's inner, outer, and active wear.

Spandex is a long chain of synthetic polymeric fibre. These fibres are produced in four different ways; melt extrusion, solution dry spinning, solution wet spinning, and reaction spinning. It is a polyurethane polymer, manufactured by the reaction of polyester or polyether gycol with di-isocyanate. The output yarns are normally white in color with a dull shine. They are supplied as zero twist, where the individual filaments are merged together to form a monofilament like a yarn.

Spandex fibres are used in the making of lingerie straps, bras, sock tops, medical products that require elasticity, bathing suits, upholstery and many more. It can be added to any fabric, and to a variety of fibres for stretchability. But, it is never used as 100% for any fabric manufacturing. It can be stretched repeatedly more than 500% of its original size and can also recover back; immediately to its original size and shape once the tension is relaxed. It is stronger, and more durable than rubber. It is lightweight, smooth and soft, and provides comfort and fit to garments. Does not get spoilt due to body odor, detergents, or after multiple washes. It offers scratch proof abilities. This material is available in clear opaque luster. When exposed to heat and ultra violet rays, rubber get badly affected, while spandex remains unaffected.

Woven fabrics manufactured by applying spandex are being used for manufacturing skirts, pants, and other apparels. Along with the advancement in technology, spandex is effectively combined with wool, and cotton, and this moved its market demand further higher. Even a fall in the price of these fibres would only help them positively by broadening the scope of their applications.

Spandex fibres are used to add free movement, improve the look, fit and feel, control bagging, and maintain shape. Due to its versatile applications, Spandex is rightly known as the 'Miracle Fibre'.