Polyamide and polyester: features, similarities and differences

In the modern world, we are increasingly confronted with the concept of "synthetics". But at the same time, we absolutely do not think about what this “miracle” is and what are its advantages. Today, most synthetic items are made of polyester and polyamide. The difference between them lies in the fact that in their production using different polymers. Let's take a closer look at these two materials in order to have an idea about the composition of the fabric, its properties and quality when choosing one or another thing.

This fiber is of synthetic origin and has a number of clear advantages. These include the following "pluses":

• the material has "breathing" properties;
• has high strength;
• he doesn’t hesitate, he is afraid of frequent “excesses”;
• dries quickly;
• long retains a presentable appearance;
• does not burn;
• has high hygiene (almost 10 times higher than polyester);
• pleasant to the touch;
• contamination from the material is easily removed.

Undoubtedly, things made of polyamide have some drawbacks. For example, they insufficiently retain heat and have the ability to strongly electrify. In addition to the fabrics for outerwear, stockings and hair bands loved by all beautiful ladies are made of this material. Polyamide is especially relevant in the summertime - it “breathes” well and is highly resistant to sunlight.

Polyester is considered to be one of the most popular man-made fibers. It has various names around the world, and it is widely used in modern light industry. In the manufacture of fabric polyester can be used completely (100%) or partially (35%). For example, adding (40-50%) of this fiber to natural increases the wear resistance of the fabric.

This synthetic fiber has undoubted advantages:

• sufficient strength and durability;
• wear resistance;
• almost not wrinkled;
• comfortable weight;
• things do not require special care;
• affordable price.

As noted above, the main difference between polyamide and polyester is in the polymers used in the production of synthetics. Polyamide is made from organic materials (we are talking about plastic), and polyester is produced by melting polyethylene terephthalate.

Consequently, their main differences are in appearance, thickness and purpose. The similarity lies in the fact that both materials perfectly retain their shape, almost do not crumple and are resistant to light. However, polyamide has a higher cost compared to polyester.

Polyamide fabrics are great for sewing outerwear. The varieties of this fiber include nylon, nylon and bolonyevye fabric. For example, a jacket made of one hundred percent nylon is lightweight and perfectly protects against adverse weather conditions. Raincoats and down jackets, which include polyamide, are characterized by long “wear” and moisture resistance.

Modified fibers are also made from this material, which in terms of their hygienic properties are very close to cotton.We are talking about megalone and trilobal - fibers imitating natural silk. In "pure" form, these materials are not used. They are used in textile production only in combination with other fibers, including natural ones.

Polyester, in most cases, is used in the manufacture of linings when sewing outerwear, underwear and curtains. Note that modern artificial fabric can have breathable properties similar to cotton. Sometimes synthetics can not be distinguished from natural fabric.

Summing up the properties of polyamide and polyester, it is safe to say that the fibers are very similar. But polyamide has a higher strength and its hygienic properties are much higher than those of polyester. At the same time, things that contain polyamide are more expensive. In modern light industry, the mixing of various fibers is widely practiced.

As a result of a combination of polyester and polyamide, elastic, wear-resistant fabrics are obtained, which retain a presentable appearance for a long time. This synthesis is optimal for the manufacture of women's underwear. "Diluted" polyester does not absorb moisture so much and is almost unable to electrify.

Also, polyester combines perfectly with elastane (soft film). Such "mixing" is widely used to create hosiery, clothing for sports, gloves and fitted knitwear. Thanks to the fibers of elastane, the material becomes “breathable” and has good “elasticity”. However, things made by such a synthesis can burn out and turn yellow when exposed to direct sunlight.

The combination of cotton and polyester (no more than 35% of the latter) makes the fabric more durable. Also, clothes made of cotton with the addition of synthetic fibers do not stretch and do not fade in the sun.

See below for the difference between polyurethane and polyester.