What is Polyester?

Polyester is one of the synthetic fibers that originated from a mixture of coal, air, water, and petroleum which is formed from a chemical reaction between an acid and alcohol. In this reaction, two or more molecules combine to make a large molecule whose structure repeats throughout its length. Polyester fibres can form very long molecules that are very stable and strong.

There are four basic forms of polyester. They are filament, staple, tow, and fiberfill. In the filament form, each individual strand of polyester fibre is continuous in length, producing smooth-surfaced fabrics. In staple form, filaments are cut to short, predetermined lengths. In this form polyester is easier to blend with other fibres. Tow is a form in which continuous filaments are drawn loosely together. Fiberfill is the voluminous form used in the manufacture of quilts, pillows, and outerwear. Filament and staple forms are used frequently.

Many products uses polyester like clothing, home furnishings, industrial fabrics, computer and recording tapes and even electrical insulation. Polyester is the perfect fabric for the application of resistant finishes like water, soil and fire as it does not absorb water but oils. It is naturally resistant to stains due to its low absorbency property.

Polyester clothing can be preshrunk in the finishing process, and thereafter the fabric resists shrinking and will not stretch out of shape. It is also easy to dye and resists damage by mildew. Polyester continues to be one of the top consumer products.


You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

AddThis Social Bookmark Button

Leave a Reply