AFPM members know that petrochemicals are invaluable to the production of countless consumer products. But many Americans may not realize how much they rely on xylene, benzene, butadiene, toluene, ethylene and propylene when they opt to spend time outside. From tent floors made of ripstop nylon to the hydrophobic treatments that keep down sleeping bags warm and dry, petrochemicals keep Americans exploring.
For outdoor retailers who want to build the best products, materials like polyester and nylon — both made from petrochemicals — are irreplaceable. Nylon is durable and often used in things like backpacks and tents, while polyester is soft and is commonly found in moisture-wicking active wear and the insides of sleeping bags.
