Looks like we have Joseph Clois Shivers, Jr. to thank for segmented copolymers (United States Patent 3044989) better known as spandex. Shivers developed this fabulous fiber in 1959, after a decade of research while employed by DuPont, which later baptized it "Lycra."
His invention soon replaced the sturdy rubber typically used in constructing undergarments (e.g., girdles). Unlike rubber, spandex is incorruptible, defying the corrosive nature of body sweat, lotions, or detergents. Lighter than rubber, spandex is blended with other fibers to make clothing that can snap back to original shape after being stretched up to 600%. These factoids give me the shivers.
Looks like Mr. Shivers has already received the coveted Olney Award for Achievement in Textile Chemistry. But does that industry-based award fully recognize his contribution to all humanity? I think n
ot. I think he should be declared a saint. I am willing and able to give compelling testimony to affirm, so to speak, the miraculous powers of spandex.St. Shivers! Kind of snappy, don't you think?
