Final answer:
The manufactured fiber made from coal or petroleum with great washing ability is polyester, a type of microfiber that's durable and blends well with other fibers. Polyester is widely used in textiles due to its low maintenance, although it does pose environmental concerns related to microplastic pollution.
Step-by-step explanation:
The manufactured fiber that is made from coal or petroleum, often blended with other fibers, and has great washing ability is polyester. Polyester is a type of microfiber that is derived from petrochemicals, which include substances like coal and petroleum. This synthetic fabric is known for its durability, resistance to wrinkling and shrinking, and its quick drying properties, making it ideal for frequent washing. Polyester can be woven or knitted into various textiles, such as apparel and home furnishings. Its hydrophobic nature ensures that it repels water, hence the great washing ability. Additionally, polyester's resilience, combined with its ability to blend with other fibers, increases the functionality and lifespan of fabrics.
Microfibers like polyester and nylon are not biodegradable, but variations made from polypropylene can be recyclable. This is both an environmental concern and a selling point, as polyester's low maintenance and durability match the needs of fast-paced lifestyles without the environmental footprint of water usage in dyeing processes seen with natural fibers like cotton. However, synthetic fibers like polyester contribute to microplastic pollution, raising environmental safety issues.
In terms of historical context, during World War II, there was a need to replace silk with synthetic alternatives like nylon for various military applications. Post-war, these synthetic fibers gained a significant market share and remain widely used today.