The things we wear have labels on them. They usually write what our clothes are made of and what fibers were used in its production: natural or synthetic. Among the latter, the popular polyester often appears, although it is new to the textile market.
However, according to statistics, from this material, obtained from petroleum products, 50 to 60% of all textiles in the world are made. What kind of fabric is this, what are its properties, where and how is it used and how to care for polyester clothing?
Physical properties of polyester
High mechanical strength, with low weight. It is plastic, does not crack, is resistant to wear and deformation, including at temperatures below zero. Retains shape when heated. Resistant to ultraviolet radiation. Insoluble in water and other solvents, resistant to acids and alkalis.
The melting point of polyester is 260 °C. At a temperature of 40-60 degrees, there is a slight deterioration in the physical properties and strength of thin fibers of the material (in clothing). “Clean” PET produced in production in compliance with all technological requirements is non-toxic and not dangerous to humans.
Polyester has only one significant drawback - when used as a material for making containers for liquids, it has poor barrier properties and does not interfere with the exchange of gases through the wall of the container.
Application of polyester
Polyester is used in a wide variety of areas: synthetic fabrics and fibers, packaging products, containers for liquids, the manufacture of molds and molds for casting, equipment housings, for the manufacture of information storage media, as a building material, the manufacture of ropes and ropes, Mylar film is also used for electrostatic speakers. Polyester is also one of the main materials for improving the properties of rubber products: car tires, high-pressure hoses, and so on.
Polyester is produced using complex chemical reactions based on petroleum products (esterification or polycondensation using antimony trioxide). The world produces approximately 20 million tons of polyester per year, more than 90% of this number is packaging products and containers.
Source
Production
What is polyester made from? Creating polyester, which is a type of polyester fabric, is a complex process. It is a chemical reaction in which many components are involved. Petroleum products are used for production. They have a number of special properties, due to which they are used in light industry both in pure and combined forms. The raw materials are dimethyl terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol. However, the creation methods in each country differ, although the principle itself remains the same. So, what is polyester (polyester) fabric?
Dimethyl ether at a temperature of about 200 degrees undergoes transesterification, while diglycol ester of terephthalic acid at a temperature of 270 degrees undergoes polycondensation to form polyethylene terephthalate resin. Fibers are precisely obtained from this melt.
However, when creating fiber, it is better to use ethylene oxide, which was created by catalytic oxidation. This is necessary, since ethylene oxide obtained through ethylene chlorohydrin almost always contains impurities of hydrocarbons containing chlorine.
Stages of creating polyester:
- synthesis of polyethylene terephthalate;
- fiber creation;
- treatment.
Methods for producing polyethylene terephthalate:
- from terephthalic acid chloride and glycol based on an inert solvent, using an alkaline catalyst;
- during the polyesterification of terephthalic acid and glycol, which is taken in large quantities, using esterification catalysts;
- transesterification of dimethyl terephthalate with ethylene glycol with further polycondensation of the resulting diglycol terephthalate.
The first methods are considered unprofitable due to a lack of materials for production.
The latter has found wide application. It consists of two stages:
- esterification
- polycondensation using antimony trioxide.
As a result of polycondensation, all components (crude, catalysts, additives) are mixed together.
As a result of esterification, esters based on alcohol and acids are obtained. Prepolycondensation and polycondensation are combined into one stage, at which the synthesis of polymers and the isolation of compounds with a low molecular structure occur. Next comes the polystyrene granulation process.
Next comes solid-phase prepolycondensation. At this stage, cooling and sudden heating of the polymers occur. This is necessary to increase their viscosity. However, production is not over yet. The melt is squeezed out through special holes in the machines, cooled again, granulated and sent to create fiber.
The result of such complex operations is the creation of the final product that is used to produce fabric.
We also note the possibility of recycling polyethylene terephthalate waste, resulting in recycled polyester.
Description and properties
To improve properties during production, polyester is combined with cotton, viscose, and wool.
Kinds:
Duspo is impregnated with polyurethane; protects from wind, dirt and repels water.
Jordan has increased wear resistance due to the addition of polyurethane. Impervious to wind and water. The surface is iridescent.
Bonding is a dense but breathable fabric that retains heat well. Used for sewing children's outerwear.
Prince is waterproof and windproof with a matte surface.
File is a very dense water- and windproof, quick-drying fabric. Retains its appearance and shape for a long time.
Trilobal is used to make clothes for women and children as it has a pearlescent tint.
Memory fabric has the memory of a previous action (for example, creasing).
Taffeta is used for sewing workwear because it is resistant to chemicals and water.
Polyester is a fabric of synthetic origin.
Externally similar to wool or cotton fabric. It is durable, wears for a long time, is lightweight and almost does not wrinkle.
Physical parameters
Decomposition temperature - 350 C
Melting point - 250-265 C
Moisture absorption percentage - 0.3%
Dissolves in toluene, acetone, benzene, ethyl acetate.
Elongation percentage - up to 55%
Density-1.4g/cm3
Having such characteristics, deformation of the fabric occurs during washing at temperatures above 40 C. Therefore, products made from it are washed at low temperatures.
This property can be attributed to both minuses and pluses. It is used by designers to obtain folds and complex clips in clothing production.
Advantages and disadvantages
Like many artificial fabrics, polyester has its advantages and disadvantages:
Comparison
Is polyester better than other synthetic fabrics or not? Which is better viscose, polyester or polyamide? Let's figure this out using the comparison method.
| Fabric/Feature | Viscose | Polyester | Polyamide |
| Compound | Man-made fiber based on cellulose | Synthetic fiber based on melt polyethylene terephthalate or its derivatives | Synthetic fiber based on polyamides |
| Tactile sensations | Soft and tender | Fairly stiff fabric | Soft and silky |
| Appearance | Has a pleasant shine, similar to natural silk | Has a slight “synthetic” shine | Depending on the production, it can be smooth or rough, shiny or matte |
| Scope of application | Used in almost all areas of the textile industry | Wide scope of application. Used for both underwear and outerwear | To create products that have direct contact with the body |
| Strength | The fiber is quite strong, but if not properly cared for it tends to fray easily. | Heavy duty | Very durable |
| Flammability | Highly flammable. Burning is smooth | Melting point 200 degrees | Does not burn. As a result of melting, a small ball is formed |
| Hygroscopicity | Absorbs moisture well | Practically does not absorb moisture | Does not absorb moisture |
| Degree of creasing | High degree of creasing | Slight creasing | Doesn't wrinkle |
| Breathability | Good air permeability | Virtually no air leaks | Good air permeability |
| Coloring | Suitable for painting | Difficult to paint | Good for painting |
| Static electricity | Does not accumulate | Accumulates | Accumulates |
| Care | Needs careful care. Repeated washing may cause the thread to fade and become dry and brittle. | Does not require special care. Easy to wash and dry quickly. Machine washable at 40 degrees (in some cases a washing temperature of 60 degrees is allowed) | Easy care. Both hand and machine washable at 40 degrees. Can be dry cleaned |
| Ironing | Can be ironed at a temperature not exceeding 150 degrees on the reverse side | Does not require ironing, but in special cases it is permissible to use an iron at a minimum temperature using additional fabric | Does not need ironing. But in extreme cases, ironing at the minimum temperature without using steam is permissible |
Polyester combined with other fabrics
What is polyester in clothing? To improve the quality and properties, polyester is often used in combination with other fabrics.
With viscose
When these two synthetic fibers are combined, a high-quality fabric is obtained.
It is highly durable, absorbs water well, is elastic, resistant to abrasions and puffs, dries quickly and tightens protruding problem areas of the body.
Polyester fabric does not allow air to pass through well, so you will experience discomfort in hot weather.
With clap
Their combination almost completely eliminated the disadvantages that fibers have in their pure form. The best proportion is considered to be a combination of 50% to 50%, or there should be more cotton.
With wool
Most often used for sewing coats. It retains heat, does not wrinkle, retains an attractive appearance for a long time, and is not spoiled by moths. With additional processing, the material becomes windproof and waterproof.
Application
Polyester is widely used, especially in combination with other fabrics.
Polyester in clothing
They produce outer and underwear, linings for clothes (coats, skirts, dresses, socks, lingerie, shorts, socks).
Curtains and interior
Widely used in interior decoration.
They are hung in the kitchen, in the bathroom, in the gazebo on the street.
Such curtains are less susceptible to wear and tear, which is why they are popular.
Bed linen
Bed linen is produced in combination with cotton in various proportions, bedspreads.
Description and properties
The characteristics, texture and appearance of the material are influenced by processing technology, composition and shape of polyester fibers. Therefore, polyester fabrics can vary greatly.
Polyester fabrics have different textures. Among them there are smooth and rough, hard and soft, thin and dense, silky and matte fabrics. The surface has a light synthetic shine. In terms of tactile qualities and external features, PE fabrics are similar to cotton, wool and silk. Some types are even called “decorative silk”.
Polyester material is valued by consumers for its weather resistance. It does not fade in the sun, protects from rain, wind and cold. The fabric is resistant to damage, does not stretch or deform when worn. PE almost does not absorb moisture and allows little air to pass through, does not pill or wrinkle. Fabrics with polyester fibers do not shrink.
It turns out polyester fabric on machines by interweaving longitudinal and transverse threads. All types are used for this: twill, linen and satin. In addition to woven materials, knitwear is widely used.
Polyester appeared in the USA, where research in the field of new artificial materials began back in 1946. The start of mass production occurred 20 years later. The first samples of polyester were used for packaging: bags, containers, adhesive tape.
Physical parameters
Advantages and disadvantages
Despite its synthetic origin, polyester has many advantages:
The disadvantages include the density of the fabric and low breathability, which results in unpleasant sensations in hot weather. The material is considered harmful for its tendency to electrify, cause skin irritation and itching. When worn, scuffs and shine appear on the elbows, cuffs and near pockets.
How is polyester obtained?
Polyester is made from polyester synthetic fiber, which is obtained after processing petroleum products.
The production technology is complex. It’s difficult to understand what’s what without knowledge of chemical processes. But if you don’t go too deep and don’t use special terms, the scheme for producing polyester threads looks something like this:
- First, the starting components are obtained from hydrocarbons and oil.
- In the process of chemical transformations, thermoplastic polystyrene is released from prepared raw materials under the influence of high temperature.
- It is cleaned of impurities and heated. At high temperatures, the plastic melts and is passed in thin streams through small holes - dies. As they cool, they form polyester fibers.
- The resulting threads, depending on the technology used, are stretched to the required length, density, strength, and smoothness.
- From the fibers combined into yarn, as a result of the interweaving of main and transverse synthetic threads, a fabric fabric is formed. It can look completely different: from the finest lace to a material of great density and strength.
When other synthetic or natural threads are added to it during the weaving process, new fabrics are obtained that are attractive in appearance, pleasant to the touch, durable, dense, and moisture resistant.
The appearance of the fabric and its characteristics depend on the shape of the fibers, the method of weaving the threads and the chemical composition of the raw materials used.
Receipt
A description of production will help you understand what polyester is. The raw materials for its production are petroleum products: ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid, polyethylene terephthalate melt. During manufacturing, a complex chemical reaction of monomers occurs from the interaction of alcohol, water, coal, air and petroleum products.
After several stages, it is possible to isolate polyester from polystyrene and begin to produce fiber. By pressing it through narrow holes. Cool and stretch to the desired strength and density. The fiber takes on a cut shape - triangular, round or oval. This will determine what kind of fabric you get: hard or soft.
Raw material PE is found in three states: fiber, film and plastic.
Polyester combined with other fibers
Polyester is combined with other fibers, which allows you to experiment with new fabrics and change properties. The inclusion of polyethylene in any composition gives the material elasticity and wear resistance. It wrinkles little and retains its original shape and color saturation for a long time. If you add polyester to cotton and viscose, the strength will increase significantly and it will become almost impossible to tear the fabric, and the risk of shrinkage during washing will be minimized.
With viscose
Adding fiber to viscose increases the elasticity, strength and wear resistance of the fabric. The color retains its brightness longer. A common formula of 30% viscose and 70% polyester is used for tailoring. The material is called polyviscose.
With lycra, elastane or spandex
Lycra, elastane and spandex are the same fiber, the difference between them is in the name of the brand. In different countries, the material is called by some other names.
Polyester and lycra fabric with a glossy surface has multi-directional stretch. It does not create a greenhouse effect and does not wrinkle. An example of a successful combination of fibers is an elegant micro-oil fabric for summer clothes.
A common combination is polyester 85-95% and elastane 15-5%. This fabric is elastic, smooth and has excellent stretch. Suitable for underwear, swimwear and sportswear.
Polyester yarn is popular among craftswomen for knitting pullovers, sweaters, scarves and hats. The products have thermal conductivity, wear well, are warm, comfortable and easy to care for.
The union of two fibers produces fabric for sportswear, hosiery, gloves and various knitwear. Due to spandex, the fabric becomes denser, elastic and breathable. However, it is susceptible to inflammation, and light shades quickly turn yellow.
With clap
The material manages to combine the naturalness and hygiene of cotton with the wear resistance and strength of polyester. The fabric is not subject to fading, creasing, ignition and lacks elasticity. It is used for sewing bed linen that lasts a long time and does not wrinkle.
With wool
The composition of polyester with wool has already become a classic (45/55%). Outerwear and suits are made from it.
With polyamide
In combination with polyamide, durable and elastic fabrics are obtained that are not subject to wear. They look attractive, soft and pleasant to the skin. Disadvantage: tendency to become electrified.
Types of fabrics
What kind of material is polyester in composition: natural or synthetic?
Yes, these can be 100% PE fabrics made entirely of synthetic fiber threads. But textiles made from pure polyester are rare. More often this is a mixed option.
Polyester fabric has different textures: rough, smooth, soft, silky and hard, matte and with a synthetic shine. The fabric can be dense and thin. Look like silk, wool or cotton.
Depending on the composition and purpose, several types of textile fabric can be distinguished:
- Raincoat (dyuspo, Jordan, taffeta, prince, bonding, file) - windproof, moisture-resistant fabric. It is used for sewing outerwear and workwear.
- Decorative (silk, jacquard, organza, brocade, taffeta, guipure) is a beautiful elegant fabric for interior items and festive outfits.
- Awning is a waterproof, durable material for sewing tents and awnings.
- Bed linen (polysatin, polycotton) is a durable, wear-resistant and long-term use fabric for sewing bed linen.
- Knitted (fleece, jersey, micro-oil, twill) is a fabric made from a mixture of natural fibers and polyethylene, which is used for sewing warm trousers, jackets, thermal underwear and other clothing.
- Insulation (sintepon, holofiber, Thinsulate, Isosoft) - used as a filler for blankets, pillows, and outerwear.
- Lining – the fabric is used in the form of a polyester lining.
Most often, the following types of polyester are indicated on clothing labels:
- Polyester Mini Mesh is a mesh material. It is used in sportswear as a lining. This fabric removes excess moisture during physical or sports activity and provides natural ventilation.
- Polyester Microfiber is a lightweight and durable fabric formed by weaving very thin threads. This material does not allow wind to pass through, does not get wet, and warms well in cold weather.
- Polyester Peach Washer is a delicate fabric with a velvety surface. Has the same properties as Polyester Microfiber.
- Polyester / PVC – fabric of increased strength and moisture resistance. Additionally treated on the inside with polyvinyl chloride.
- Polyester Polar Fleece is an unstructured fabric that is pleasant to the touch, has a smooth surface and increased strength.
- Polyester Tricot Shiny – the fabric has a characteristic shine.
- Polyester Tricot is a durable material that does not lose its shape and color with numerous washes and long-term use.
Application
Polyester is in demand in a variety of fields and its range of applications is constantly expanding.
T-shirts and shirts, dresses and blouses, shorts and trousers, coats and raincoats, jackets and umbrellas, ties and scarves, hats and tights are made from the material. And also among sets of bed linen and fabrics for upholstery. Polyester is used to make workwear, equipment for tourists and hunters, toys, underwear, and used for curtains and window curtains. Some types are used for the production of travel bags, backpacks, and school bags.
About care
Polyester does not take much time to care for. Products made from polyethylene are recommended to be washed by hand, on a delicate or synthetic cycle. Use cold water or heated water no higher than 40°. Products made from polyester and natural fibers should be sorted into different bins.
Important! After washing in hot water, unsightly creases appear on the polyester. And bleach can ruin clothes.
For light-colored fabrics, universal detergents are allowed; colored ones require powders and gels for fine textiles. Adding an antistatic agent to the rinse water will prevent “sparking” and cracking when worn.
The material is afraid of intense spinning and twisting. The speed when washing in the machine should be minimal.
Stains from the material can be easily removed with a soap solution. You need to moisten a cloth in it and treat the stain. Rinse with clean water and dry. Greasy marks on polyester materials can be easily removed using dish gel. It is applied to the contaminated area and left for 7-10 minutes. All that remains is to rinse off the composition and wash the item in a basin of soapy water.
You can try to get rid of shine and wear on fabric by steaming. It is necessary to restore the fibers crushed by monotonous movements. The operation is carried out using an iron and ironing iron moistened in a vinegar solution.
Caring for polyester products
Products made from polyester do not require special care. You can wash it in an automatic machine, by hand or use dry cleaning.
Use water no more than 40 C. Wash colored clothes with products for colored or delicate fabrics, white clothes with universal products.
Dry straightened on a hanger, avoiding direct sunlight. If the item needs to be ironed, use the delicate mode, preferably through a damp cloth.
