Synthetic or artificial fibers are made of polymeric compounds using particular spinning procedures and include polyester, polyamide fibers, etc. Such fibers may have a negative image in the minds of some consumers due to a variety of reasons: inappropriate end-uses, poor fashion image, impact on the environment and poor comfort characteristics. However, marketing strategies have strengthened the industry and changed the perception of these fibers. Synthetic fibers offer much in terms of high-tech versatility, easy care, durability and high fashion appeal, while research and development efforts continue to improve their performance and expand their end-uses.

Today, synthetic fibers account for about half of all fiber usage, with applications in every field of fiber and textile technology. Although many classes of fibers based on synthetic polymers have been evaluated as potentially valuable commercial products, four of them – nylon (polyamide), polyester, acrylic and polyolefin - dominate the market. These four account for approximately 98 % by volume of synthetic fiber production, with polyester alone accounting for around 60 %.