Intermediate Topic 1032 of 1102 Biochemistry, Environment & Industry

Polyester

Polymers with ester links used in textiles and bottles.

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In-depth explanation of Polyester

Polyesters are polymers with ester links in the backbone, formed by condensation of a diol with a dicarboxylic acid or by polymerising hydroxy acid esters. Polyethylene terephthalate, PET, is made from ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid, or from dimethyl terephthalate. Its aromatic rings and ester groups make the polymer strong, dimensionally stable and resistant to wrinkling. PET is widely used for clothing fibres and beverage bottles, and it can be recycled mechanically or chemically. Polyesters are also used in films and some coatings.

Going deeper: Polyester

Key ideas: Condensation polymers linked by ester bonds. PET (polyethylene terephthalate) comes from ethane-1,2-diol plus terephthalic acid (or dimethyl terephthalate) losing water or methanol. It is used for bottles (code 1) and fibers (Dacron, Terylene). It is strong, light, resistant to acids, and can be recycled to fleece or new bottles.

Common mistakes and connections: Mistake: saying polyester can only be one polymer; many exist, such as PLA, biodegradable. Ester bonds can hydrolyze, which enables chemical recycling. Do not confuse with polyamide, which has N. Links to esterification, condensation polymerization and textile industry.

Visualization of Polyester

Approximate share of world fibre production. Polyester, mostly PET, is now the largest single fibre, ahead of cotton. The interactive lesson shows this as a live animation or chart.

Worked example and use case

Fleece jackets are often made from polyester fibres spun from recycled PET bottles.

Frequently asked questions about Polyester

What is Polyester?

Polymers with ester links used in textiles and bottles.

Is Polyester a beginner, intermediate or advanced topic?

Polyester is a intermediate topic in Biochemistry, Environment & Industry. It builds on the vocabulary of beginner topics in this area.

What should I learn before Polyester?

Study these earlier topics in Biochemistry, Environment & Industry first: Polyethylene, PVC, Nylon.

What comes after Polyester?

The next topics in Biochemistry, Environment & Industry are Teflon and Kevlar.

Can I practise Polyester with quizzes?

Yes. The interactive lesson includes a self-check question on Polyester, and the Biochemistry, Environment & Industry quiz draws on every topic in this area.

Where Polyester fits in Biochemistry, Environment & Industry

Polyester is topic 57 of 127 in Biochemistry, Environment & Industry.