Understanding Manmade Fibers from Wood Pulp

Manmade fibers are materials created by humans, as opposed to natural fibers like cotton or silk that come from plants or animals. These fibers can be made from natural raw materials through chemical processes or entirely from synthetic chemicals.

Identifying the Fiber from Wood Pulp

The question asks for a specific type of manmade fiber obtained through the chemical treatment of wood pulp. Wood pulp is primarily composed of cellulose, a natural polymer found in plants. The chemical treatment of this cellulose allows it to be processed into a fiber form.

Examining the Options:

• Rayon: Rayon is a regenerated cellulose fiber. It is produced by chemically treating wood pulp (or other sources of cellulose) to dissolve it, and then extruding this solution through small holes into a bath that solidifies it back into fibers. Therefore, Rayon directly fits the description.
• Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fiber. It is typically made from petroleum-based chemicals, not wood pulp. Examples include polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
• Nylon: Nylon is also a synthetic fiber. It is a polyamide and is made from chemicals derived from petroleum.
• Terylene: Terylene is a specific type of polyester (polyethylene terephthalate). Like other polyesters, it is a synthetic fiber derived from petroleum products.

Based on the origin and manufacturing process, Rayon is the manmade fiber that is obtained by the chemical treatment of wood pulp.

Why Rayon is the Answer

Rayon's production process involves breaking down the cellulose from wood pulp and then regenerating it into a fiber. This makes it distinct from synthetic fibers like Polyester, Nylon, and Terylene, which are synthesized from non-natural organic compounds, usually derived from petrochemicals.

In summary:

• Rayon originates from natural cellulose (like wood pulp) that is chemically processed.
• Polyester, Nylon, and Terylene are synthetic fibers made from synthetic chemicals.

Thus, the manmade fiber obtained by chemical treatment of wood pulp is Rayon.