POLYESTER MICROFIBER FABRIC

 

The main ingredient used in the manufacture of polyester is ethylene. Polyester is a category of polymers that contain a chain of synthetic repeating units. Combining two or more of these units together creates a larger unit whose structure continues throughout its length. Because of this polymer chain, polyester fibers can be very long and incredibly strong. The polyester material is then drawn out into a microfilament (typical: 1/5 the diameter of a human hair). At this point, the material shape is similar to common thread and multiple strands (threads) can be twisted together to form a longer yarn. From there, the yarns are woven (often plain or twill weave) in much the same way as other common organic fabrics. Since Polyester is a hydrophobic, it has low water absorbency and dries faster than its material relative, nylon. Some think polyester is superior to nylon for boardshorts because of nylon’s inability to repel water - water causes nylon to swell and ultimately weakens its molecular structure. Polyester microfiber is strong & holds its shape well, but only average at holding dye color with prolonged exposure to chlorine. One recent controversy surrounding synthetic textiles is that research indicates that microparticles from these plastic materials are a big culprit in the pollution of our oceans and drinking water. For further information on the history of this material's use in boardshorts click here.