Which of the following materials is commonly used for making slings?

Nylon is a commonly used material for making slings due to its excellent strength-to-weight ratio, durability, and flexibility. It exhibits high tensile strength, which is crucial for lifting and transporting heavy loads safely. Nylon slings are also resistant to abrasion and are able to maintain their integrity under various environmental conditions. Additionally, nylon has some elasticity, which allows it to absorb shock loads effectively, thus minimizing the risk of sudden failures during lifting operations.

In contrast, materials like aluminum and steel mesh, while they have their own applications in rigging and lifting, are not typically used for slings. Aluminum may be too lightweight and not sufficiently durable for the strain that slings experience, while steel mesh slings can be rigid and do not have the necessary flexibility or shock-absorbing characteristics ideal for lifting applications. Cotton, while historically used, does not perform well under heavy loads or in wet conditions as nylon does, making it less preferable in modern rigging practices.