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Polyester fibre
1-7.5 usd/kg
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.
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Sustainability concerns
Non-renewable ingredients
Raw material generates polluting by-products
Microplastics
Polyethylene terephthalate (PETE, PET) is the most common of the polyester fibres. Known under trade names, such as Dacron, Trevira and Dralon, it can be found in a wide range of textile applications, from carpets, pillows and mattresses, to fashion textiles, faux fur, sportswear and conveyor belts. For demanding applications, it may be coated to extend its useful life. For example, as a waterproof canopy of mesh facade (to provide shade or maintain airflow for example) in architecture, PES is coated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) fluoropolymer for enhanced UV resistance, or titanium dioxide (TiO2).
It is not as strong or durable as nylon (PA), or brilliantly coloured as PBT, or soft and resilient as PTT. However, it is one of the most cost effective fibres (and fibres from recycled PET, such as bottles, can be half as much), has very good chemical (stain) resistance and shape-retention, and has a smooth lustrous surface (imitation silk). Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is added to the raw material to dull the surface. Fibres are produced as solid, hollow (insulating), textured and filament, and range from micro to large denier. It is blended with other fibres, such as cotton and wool, to improve wrinkle resistance and durability. Fabrics that are not pigmented are susceptible to UV and light.
The strength of polyester yarn is its versatility. It is converted into many different types of textile, from low-cost commodity fabric to high-performance moisture-wicking, thermoregulating apparel. Dacron is a high-tenacity fibre used to make monofilament fishing line, braided rope and three-piece suits. Coolmax is an oval-shaped yarn produced with groves along its length that wick moisture away from the body. It is used in bedding and clothing, for example. Thermocool is a hybrid fibre with large surface area, moisture-wicking channels and hollow interior to enhance air circulation and provide insulation. As a thermoplastic, it is compatible with pleating, crimping and folding with heat, to form permanent 3D structures.
