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Polyester

Item

Title
Polyester
Description
Polyester is a synthetic fiber made from the polymer polyethylene terephthalate (PET). It is produced through a melt-spinning process in which molten polymer is extruded through spinnerets to form fibers. Polyester is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to wrinkles and shrinking. The fiber became widely used in clothing and home furnishings during the mid-twentieth century and remains one of the most widely produced synthetic fibers in the world. Polyester fibers absorb little moisture, dry quickly, and maintain their shape well. Environmental concerns include the fiber’s petroleum origin and its contribution to microplastic pollution, although recycled polyester made from plastic bottles is increasingly common.
Alternative Title
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET); Dacron; Terylene
Bibliographic Citation
Kadolph, Sara J. Textiles. Pearson Education.
Image: https://newsroom.northumbria.ac.uk/pressreleases/extent-of-microfibre-pollution-from-textiles-to-be-explored-at-new-research-hub-3365221
Creator
John Rex Whinfield and James Tennant Dickson (Calico Printers’ Association)
Date
1941
Source
Encyclopedia of Textiles, Fibers, and Nonwoven Fabrics
Spatial Coverage
United Kingdom
Subject
polyester;
synthetic fibers;
textile industry;
polymer science;
PET fiber
Type
Synthetic fiber