Professional guide

Polyester and synthetics

Polyester is the most used textile. It is derived from petroleum and is therefore a non-renewable resource. But this does not automatically mean that it is the devil's textile.

Almost half of the world’s yearly production of synthetic fibres is polyester, an amount that totals around 11 million tons. The main catalyst used in polyester production is antimony, a known carcinogen and toxin that affects the heart, lungs, liver and skin. By-products of antimony cause chronic bronchitis and emphysema. They also pollute waterways.

1 % of all petroleum production is converted in to over 50 % of all textiles

If one adds up all synthetic fibres, the math is as follows: 46 % is polyester, 3 % is nylon and 5 % is acrylic of the world's total consumation of textiles. All in all 4 % of the total oil production is diverted in to plastics, and from this 25 % becomes textiles. This means that 1 % of all petroleum production is converted in to over 50 % of all textiles.

Synthetics have many properties that give them a better eco-footprint in the production phase and user-phase, since they as a raw material based on a non-renewable resource do not win first place - these issues are adressed on the following pages in the life-cycle of synthetics. But in competition with natural raw-materials, land-use and water-use are two issues where petroleum can boast a better profile by far. But looking at the raw material itself - petroleum - the ecological and social costs of oil exploration and extraction, and the transport of the oil - is what adds up.

Manufactured Fabrics are usually made of filaments extruded as liquid and formed into various fibers. Because the fiber starts as a liquid, many of the fibers are colored before they become filament, thus they are difficult to dye after the fiber is woven into a fabric.

POLYESTER is a strong fiber that is resistant to crease and thus keeps it shape. Polyester melts at medium to high temperatures. Although many people dislike polyester, it remains a versatile and important man-made fabric. Blends of polyester give cotton a permanent press property and extend the wear of these blended garments.

ACETATE is not a strong fiber but can be extruded into fibers of different diameter and woven into fabrics that have the luxurious look of silk but do not wear like silk. Acetate does not absorb moisture readily but dries fast and resists shrinking. This is a resilient fabric that resists wrinkling in addition to being pliable and soft with a good drape. Triacetate is an improved acetate fabric which doesn’t melt as easier and is easier to care for. 

ACRYLIC is a fine soft and luxurious fabric with the bulk and hand of wool. Light weight and springy, this fabric is non-allergenic, dries quickly, draws moisture away from the body and is washable. Acrylic does not take even a moderate amount of heat. Modacrylics are used in pile fabrics like fake fur and are more flame resistant.

LASTEX is an elastic fiber made from Latex. It is most often used with other fibers to create fabrics such as Spandex and foundation garments. Lastex will deteriorate after repeated washing and drying, losing its elasticity.

NYLON has become one of the most versatile fibers of the man-made fabrics. In addition to hosiery, nylon is used in tricot, netting for bridal veils, and in carpeting. Nylon is stronger yet weighs less than any other commonly used fiber. It is elastic and resilient and responsive to heat setting. Nylon fibers are smooth, non-absorbent and dry quickly. Dirt doesn’t cling to this smooth fiber nor is it weakened by chemicals and perspiration. Extensive washing and drying in an automatic dryer can eventually cause piling.