Polyester fibre

Polyester fibre is the most common of the synthetic fibres. Of the different types, polyethylene terephthalate (abbreviated as PETE or PET) is the most common. It is cheap, strong, durable, crease-resistant and quick drying. It has an inherently glossy surface, which has become recognisable in low cost garments. And its resistance to water means it can feel clammy in warm weather when worn close to the skin. Developments in chemistry and ultra soft microfibres, as well as its water-shedding quality for outer layers, are helping polyester to overcome its cheap reputation.

Polyester may be partially, or wholly, derived from potentially renewable materials. Certain types, such as polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT), may have renewable ingredients as part of their fundamental chemistry, which may or may not be advantageous, depending on the source of the material.

Polyester fibre can be found in all types of textiles, including apparel and outdoor gear, fashion fabrics, fancy pile and metallics, carpets, geotextiles, tensile fabric structures used in architecture and industrial fabrics.