A class name for various genera of fibers (including filaments) produced from fiber-forming substances which may be:

(1) polymers synthesized from chemical compounds, e.g., acrylic, nylon, polyester, polyethylene, polyurethane, and polyvinyl fibers;

(2) modified or transformed natural polymers, e.g., alginic and cellulose-based fibers such as acetates and rayons; and

(3) minerals, e.g., glasses. The term manufactured usually refers to all chemically produced fibers to distinguish them from the truly natural fibers such as cotton, wool, silk, flax, etc.