Extension Activity - Flying with Nylon

INTRODUCTION

Nylon material is used to make the brightly coloured spinnakers for yachts and for many other everyday items. Because it is lightweight yet strong, it is used in tents, spray jackets, hot air balloons, hang glider sails, kites and also for the wings of ultra-light aircraft.

Nylon material is joined in several ways. It is usually sewn, but it may be joined using double-sided sticky-tape or glued. When sailmaking, the nylon material is joined first by using double sided tape, then by sewing. This is a good method because the shape of the sail may be assessed before more permanent sewing takes place.

WHAT YOU NEED

• Nylon spinnaker material (scrap offcuts from a sailmaker)
• Double sided tape (purchase from a sailmaker or stationery shop)
• String or fishing line
• Scissors
• Needle and cotton
• Thin wooden or cane rods (kebab sticks)

WHAT TO DO

Using your knowledge of various materials, carry out a design activity to test the suitability of nylon. Choose from one of the following:

• Design and construct a parachute that remains in the air as long as possible. When open, the parachute must be less than 300mm in diameter.
• Design and construct a kite that will use the properties of nylon to best advantage.
• Design and construct a model hang glider that lies within a 300mm X 400mm rectangle.

Optional Research

How was nylon first discovered and how is it manufactured?