Semon, Waldo L.

   While working for the B. F. Goodrich Company in the United States, Semon (American) was boiling polyvinyl chloride (PVC) in a high-temperature solvent in an effort to extract an unsaturated polymer that might bond rubber to metal. The result was the creation of vinyl, a process and product that he patented in 1926. This synthetic rubberlike composition had many end uses, mostly in the area of waterproofing for such items as coated electrical wires, shower curtains, raincoats, boots, and umbrellas. During World War II, the bulk of vinyl production went for the war effort. However, during the 1950s and especially the 1960s, the textile became sensationalized in the mod and futuristic designs of Paco Rabanne, Pierre Cardin, André Courrèges, and Mary Quant. Vinyl's appeal continues with innovations ranging from synthetic leather looks to printed, texturized, matte, or clear, in full range of colors and patterns. New backings, which allow for breathability, are also being offered. Vinyl's popularity is no longer limited to rainwear sectors but reaches all areas of the fashion industry.