Spandex

Bold textCloseup of the lycra-like material of a speaker cover Spandex, Lycra or elastane, is a synthetic fibre known for its exceptional elasticity. It is stronger and more durable than rubber, its major non-synthetic competitor. It is a polyurethane-polyurea copolymer that was invented in 1959 by chemist Joseph Shivers at DuPont's Benger Laboratory in Waynesboro, Virginia. When first introduced, it revolutionized many areas of the clothing industry. Spandex is not derived from the chemical name of the fibre, as are most manufactured fibres; but an anagram of the word expands. Spandex is the preferred name in North America; in many European countries it is referred to as "elastane".