Textile Term: Polyester
Polyester, a synthetic fiber widely used in the textile industry, has numerous advantageous properties, such as strength, durability, and resistance to wrinkles, shrinking, and abrasion. To create this fiber, ethylene glycol is polymerized with terephthalic acid or dimethyl terephthalate, resulting in a polymer that is then extruded into fibers.
Polyester's quick-drying and moisture-wicking properties make it a popular choice for activewear and outdoor clothing, and it can be blended with other fibers to create fabrics with diverse characteristics. For example, a combination of polyester and cotton can create a sturdy yet breathable fabric.
Polyester's ability to retain color and resist most chemicals makes it an easy-to-maintain material. However, polyester's lack of breathability compared to natural fibers like cotton or wool can make it less comfortable to wear in hot and humid climates.
Moreover, polyester fibers are not biodegradable, which poses environmental concerns. Nevertheless, textile recycling advancements have made it possible to reuse polyester fibers and lessen their impact on the environment.
