Polyester is a type of polymer that contains the ester functional group in their main chain. As a specific material, this most commonly refers to a type of material called polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Polyesters may include some naturally occurring chemicals, that can be found in the cutin of plant cuticles, and also in synthetic materials such as polybutyrate. All natural polyesters as well as a few synthetic ones are biodegradable, although most synthetic polyesters are not. The material is mostly used in many different styles of clothing.
Polyester fibers will sometimes sometimes be spun together with other natural fibers to produce a soft but strong cloth with blended properties. Cotton-polyester blends are known to be strong, wrinkle-resistant and tear-resistant, with much less shrinking. Synthetic fibers that use polyester have a high resistance to water, wind and other environmental problems compared to fibers derived from plants. However they are not as fire-resistant and can melt when ignited.
Some polyester blends have been given deceptive names to suggest their similarity or even superiority to other natural fibers (for example, many varieties of China silk, which is an especially deceptive name, specifically in the textiles industry for a synthetic fiber woven to resemble the feel and durability of natural insect-derived silk, are in many cases actually made of 100% polyester or a polyester-rayon blend.)
Liquid crystalline polyesters were among the first industrially used liquid crystal polymers. They are used mostly because of their mechanical properties and also for their heat-resistance. These properties are also essential in their role as an abradable seal in jet engines.
Polyester has been found to have many uses and functions, but I have found it to make some of the best, most comfortable shirts that I’ve ever worn. You will not regret buying shirts made of polyester, or polyester blends.
