azlon, synthetic textile fibre composed of protein material derived from natural sources. It is produced, like other synthetic fibres, by converting the raw material to a solution that is extruded through the holes of a device called a spinneret and then stretched to improve the alignment of the chains of molecules making up the fibres.
Protein substances from both animal and vegetable sources have been employed, including casein, a by-product of skim milk; zein, derived from corn (maize); keratin, a horny substance obtained from such materials as chicken feathers; collagen, derived from leather and hide wastes; egg albumin, a by-product of commercially dried eggs; and the protein of cotton seed, peanuts (groundnuts), and soybeans.
Azlon has had little commercial success because it is especially low in strength when wet and can be stretched to a great extent but does not readily resume its original length. Although more flammable than wool, it is less so than rayon or acetate. Used in apparel fabrics, azlon is soft and warm to the wearer. It absorbs moisture, does not accumulate static electricity, and does not become matted. It is chiefly used in blends with other fibres, contributing soft hand (characteristics perceived by handling) to fabrics for such apparel as coats, suits, and knitwear.