Nylon rescue ropes lose up to what percentage of their strength when wet?

Nylon rescue ropes can lose up to 15% of their strength when wet due to the hydrophilic nature of nylon fibers. When nylon absorbs moisture, its molecular structure changes, which can cause the fibers to swell and lose some of their inherent tensile strength. This alteration diminishes the rope’s effectiveness in rescue operations, as a weaker rope could compromise safety and performance during critical situations.

Understanding this characteristic of nylon is essential for rescue personnel, as it underlines the importance of being aware of environmental conditions that can affect equipment performance. Additionally, it informs decisions regarding rope maintenance, inspection, and replacement in scenarios where wet conditions may be anticipated. Knowledge of the strength reduction helps ensure that the appropriate safety margins are factored into rescue planning and execution.

The selected answer accurately reflects the known data about nylon's performance when wet, highlighting the importance of material properties in safety equipment used in field operations.