Polyester

Polyester is an important type of synthetic fiber. It is made from purified terephthalic acid (PTA) or dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) and ethylene glycol (MEG) by esterification or ester exchange and condensation reaction. The molecular structure is as followed.

Polyester Molecular Structure

Polyester is composed of short aliphatic hydrocarbon chains, ester groups, benzene rings, and terminal alcohol hydroxyl groups. Except for the two terminal alcohol hydroxyl groups in the polyester sub, there are no other polar groups, and thus polyester fiber has very poor hydrophilicity. The polyester molecule contains about 46% ester group, which can be hydrolyzed and thermalized when the temperature is above 200 degrees. Ester Group can also be saponified when it is in strong alkali condition, reducing the polymerization degree. The ordinary detergent below 100 degrees has no effect on the polyester.

Polyester is relatively good at strength, elasticity, heat resistance, heat insulation, abrasion resistance, and corrosion resistance, but poor in dyeing and hygroscopicity. Its color fastness is good, and not easy to fade. There is no specific dyeing group on the polyester molecular chain, and the polarity is small. As a result, the dye molecules are not easy to enter the fiber. It is sultry to wear, and easy to carry static electricity and stain dust, affecting aesthetics and comfort. However, it is effortless to dry after washing, and the wet strength hardly decreases or deforms. It has a good wash and wears performance.

There are many types of polyester fabrics. In addition to pure type, there are many products that are blended or interwoven with various textile fibers. Polyester fabrics are developing towards the naturalization of synthetic fibers such as wool-like, silk-like, linen-like, and deerskin-like fibers.

Our company can supply specialty polyester chips for such synthetic fibers. For more information, please refer to https://www.polyestermfg.com/category/products/ or contact us directly.