Polyester: History Forms Manufacturing Process Properties Future Uses
Polyester: History Forms Manufacturing Process Properties Future Uses
Polyester: History Forms Manufacturing Process Properties Future Uses
History
Forms
Manufacturing Process Properties Future Uses
DEFINITION
Polyester (aka Terylene) is a category of polymers which contain the ester functional group in their main chain.
chain polymers chemically composed of at least 85% by weight of an ester and a dihydric alcohol and terephthalic acid. The name polyester refers to the linkage of several monomers (esters) within the fiber.
HISTORY
In 1946, du Pont purchased the right to produce this polyester fiber in the United States. The company conducted some further developmental work, and in
RAW MATERIALS
Coal Air Water Petroleum
FORMS OF POLYESTER
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In the filament form, each individual strand of polyester fiber 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 fibers 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
Microscopic View
Strong Resistant to stretching and shrinking Resistant to most chemicals Quick drying Crisp and resilient when wet or dry Wrinkle resistant Mildew resistant Abrasion resistant Retains heat-set pleats and crease Easily washed
POLYESTER BLENDS
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POLYESTER BLENDS
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POLYESTER BLENDS
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Polymerization
To form polyester, dimethyl terephthalate is first reacted with ethylene glycol in the presence of a catalyst at a temperature of 302410F (150-210C). The resulting chemical, a monomer (single, non-repeating molecule) alcohol, is combined with terephthalic acid and raised to a temperature of 472F (280C). Newly-formed polyester, which is clear and molten, is extruded through a slot to form long ribbons. After the polyester emerges from polymerization, the long molten ribbons are allowed to cool until they become brittle. The material is cut into tiny chips and completely dried to prevent irregularities in consistency.
Drying
MELT SPINNING
Polymer chips are melted at 500-518F (260-270C) to form a syrup-like solution. The solution is put in a metal container called a spinneret and forced through its tiny holes, which are usually round, but may be pentagonal or any other shape to produce special fibers. The number of holes in the spinneret determines the size of the yarn, as the emerging fibers are brought together to form a single strand. At the spinning stage, other chemicals may be added to the solution to make the resulting material flame retardant, antistatic, or easier to dye.
When polyester emerges from the spinneret, it is soft and easily elongated up to five times its original length. This increases the strength, tenacity, and resilience of the fiber. This time, when the filaments dry, the fibers become solid and strong instead of brittle. Drawn fibers may vary greatly in diameter and length, Also, as the fibers are drawn, they may be textured or twisted to create softer or duller fabrics.
Winding
After the polyester yarn is drawn, it is wound on large bobbins or flat-wound packages, ready to be woven into material.
PHYSICAL PROPERTIES
Specific weight Tenacity Moisture regain Heat Sunlight Insects
CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
Acids: At room temperature, PET is resistant to organic and moderate strength mineral acids. At high temperatures, PET strength loss in moderate strength acids can be appreciable. Strong acids such as concentrated sulfuric acid dissolve and depolymerize PET. Alkalies: Polyester bers have good resistance to weakly alkaline chemicals and moderate resistance to stronglyalkaline chemicals at room temperature. PET bers are attacked by strongly alkaline substances. Organic Solvents: PET bers are generally insoluble in organic solvents, including cleaning uids.
FUTURE
Biodegradable and biocompatible poly(3-hydroxybutyrateco-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV), a copolymer of microbial polyester, was fabricated as a Nano fibrous mat by electro spinning The researchers have developed a process in which polyester is dramatically strengthened with a material known as a liquid crystalline polymer. The liquid crystalline polymer used in the research is called Vectra , a plastic material similar to Kevlar that is five times stronger than steel. Polyester is used because its chemical structure is ideal for making bonds with the liquid crystalline polymer