polyester
Definition
Polyester is a synthetic fibre that is made from repeating units of a chemical called terephthalic acid. Polyester is strong, durable, and wrinkle-resistant. It is also water-resistant and can be used to make a variety of clothing, home furnishings, and other products.
Polyester is made by a process called polymerization. In polymerization, small molecules are linked together to form large molecules. In the case of polyester, the small molecules are terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol.
Terephthalic acid is a white solid that is made from petroleum. Ethylene glycol is a colourless liquid that is made from ethylene gas. When terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol are heated together, they react and form a polymer. The polymer is then melted and spun into fibres. These fibres are then woven into fabric.
Polyester has many properties that make it a popular choice for clothing and other products. It is strong, durable, and wrinkle-resistant. It is also water-resistant and can be made to look like other natural fibres, such as cotton and silk.
However, polyester also has some drawbacks. It is not as breathable as natural fibres, and it can be uncomfortable to wear in hot weather. Polyester is also not biodegradable, so it can contribute to pollution if it is not disposed of properly.
How can the word be used?
The polyester resin used in boat building is a strong and durable material.
Different forms of the word
Noun: a synthetic fibre or resin made from a polymer of an ester.
Adjective: relating to or made of polyester.
Etymology
The word "polyester" is a compound word, made up of the words "poly" and "ester". The prefix "poly" means "many", and the word "ester" refers to a chemical compound that contains an alcohol and a carboxylic acid.
Question
What is polyester used for?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Define polyester and describe its characteristics as a synthetic polymer. Explain the process of polymerization in the production of polyester and discuss its common applications in everyday products.
Answer:
Polyester is a synthetic polymer made from long chains of repeating units called esters. It is known for its durability, wrinkle resistance, and ability to retain colour well, making it widely used in textiles and various everyday products.
The production of polyester involves a process called polymerisation. It starts with reacting monomers, such as ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid, which undergo a chemical reaction to form a polymer chain. This reaction releases water molecules, which is why polyester production is often called "condensation polymerisation.".
Polyester's versatility makes it a popular choice in textiles, from clothing to upholstery and carpets. It's also used in packaging materials, bottles (PET plastic), and insulating materials. In the fashion industry, polyester's ability to mimic natural fibres like silk and cotton while being more affordable has contributed to its widespread use.
However, polyester production involves the use of fossil fuels and energy-intensive processes, raising concerns about its environmental impact. Efforts are being made to develop more sustainable alternatives and recycling methods for polyester to reduce its environmental footprint.