Industry Knowledge
Polyester fabric is an extremely popular textile, primarily used in apparel. It has many benefits, including durability, flexibility, versatility, sun resistance, lightweight weight, resistance to creases, and moisture-wicking properties. It is a great choice for outdoor clothing and gear, especially when used for high-activity activities like hiking and backpacking.
It is also a great material for homewares, particularly in the bath and kitchen categories. Manufacturers often use polyester to make products like bath towels and face towels, as well as in other fabrics for cushioning, upholstery, and curtains.
This synthetic fiber is a type of plastic made from two monomers, ethylene and p-xylene, which are extracted from petroleum. The ethylene and p-xylene are broken down using heat, fuel, pressure, water, and catalysts at refineries into useful ingredients for making polyester.
Once in the production phase, polyester is manufactured through a series of processes that start with forming a monomer and then re-melting it to form the polymer. The molten polyester is then extruded through spinnerets, which are tiny holes that allow the polyester to be formed into long fibers.
After cooling, the spun fibers are twisted together to create polyester yarn. The resulting yarn is then woven into fabric. The polyester fibers can be treated with a variety of chemicals to change their color and properties.
They are a popular material for children’s clothes, especially since they resist wrinkles and wash well without fading. They are also highly breathable, making them comfortable to wear.
Polyester is also a great option for sportswear, with its durable fibers that won’t tear or stretch. The material is also abrasion-resistant and highly resistant to mildew, bacteria, and most chemicals.
The fiber is a good option for outdoor apparel, particularly when it’s blended with cotton. This combination offers a combination of strength, elasticity, and moisture-wicking qualities that can be perfect for all kinds of outdoor activities.
These benefits mean that polyester is a popular fiber for activewear, and can be found in sports bras, athletic leggings, and other sports-related clothing. It is also used for other types of gear, like tents and bags, as it is easy to clean, quick-drying, and resistant to stains and mildew.
Recycled polyester is a more environmentally friendly choice than virgin polyester, however, it does have some disadvantages. Each time it is reheated in the recycle process, it degrades, which can release carcinogenic antimony compounds into the environment.
Additionally, recycled polyester can be a fire hazard because of its plastic content. It is also not as strong as its natural counterpart, so it should be avoided if possible.
The environmental impact of this fabric is fairly significant, but there are a number of ways that you can reduce its negative impact. You can choose to use organic or biodegradable materials, as well as recycled polyester, and look for fabrics that are re-dyed with environmentally-friendly dyes. This is a great way to support the textile industry’s efforts to reduce their environmental footprint.