In the early 20th century, the war effort was in full swing. For everyone back home, this meant strict rationing of basic supplies.
Silk was vital for making parachutes, and when silk stockings disappeared from shop shelves, women began to despair.
Scientists came to the rescue by creating nylon, the first synthetic fibre. Lightweight, stretchable, and very strong, this new polymer chain fibre was widely used in fishing line, ropes, parachutes, plastics, fabrics, and of course, the nylon stocking.
Now the humble nylon fishing line has a powerful new use.