Polyester fabric is a versatile and important man-made fabric. It has an
outstanding characteristic of resisting wrinkle and springing back into its
crisp smooth shape. It is strong, and soft hand. The fabric is resistant to
stretching and shrinkage. These are quick to dry and are resilient. It has
an excellent pleat retention property. It requires minimum care and is
easily washable.
Polyester is a polymer, which is produced from the coal, air, water, and
petroleum products. It was first commercially produced in 1953 by E. I. Du
Pont de Nemours & Company, Inc. in the United States. It is next to
cotton in worldwide use.
Polyester fabric blends well with fabrics. It blends with wool, acetate, or
rayon to improve the durability of the fabric and even to make it easy
washable, if the percentage of polyester is high. It adds the quality of
wrinkle resistance to the fabric and eliminates crushing of napped fabrics,
and reduces fading. The fabric aggravates pilling problems after being
blended with wool.
Characteristics of Polyester Fabric
- It is strong, stretchable, and durable.
- It does not wrinkle.
- It does not shrink.
- It is resistant to crease.
- It is resistant to mildew.
- It is abrasion resistant.
- It is resistant to most chemicals.
- It is not damaged by sunlight or weather.
- It dries quickly. It is crisp and resilient when wet or dry.
- It is easily washed.
- It does not absorb moisture making it hot and clammy when worn in
hot temperatures.
Uses of Polyester Fabric
- Polyester clothing has a good stability and strength and is resistant
to stretching and shrinkage. It is not damaged by sunlight or weather.
It is widely used as dresses, blouses, jackets, separates, sportswear,
suits, shirts, pants, rainwear, lingerie, children-wear.
- Polyester fabric is manufactured in many weights and it is used as
fiberfill in pillows and upholstery. In upholstery, polyester is
generally blended with wool to eliminate crushing and reduce fading.
- Polyester is also used in casement curtains, draperies, floor
coverings, throw rugs, bedding, and as a cushioning or insulating
material.
