Performance of Nylon Climbing Ropes

Introduction
Nylon climbing ropes are often used in very adverse conditions. Technical rock climbers "...often have a stronger relationship with their rope then they do with their significant other--and trust it more too." (Rock and Ice) Some of the harsh conditions which ropes are subjected to while being climbed on are; abrasion from rocks and equipment, ground in dirt, repetitive falls sustained and moisture. Since any combination of these conditions could possibly affect the behavior of the rope, it would be wise to understand which combinations have the biggest effect on tensile stren…