Question

Define polyester. Write its properties and uses.

Answer 1

Hint:The polyesters are formed by the condensation reaction between an alcohol and a carboxylic acid. These two functional groups react with each other to form an ester linkage.

Complete step by step answer:
Polyesters are defined as the class of polymer which contains ester as the main group in the primary chain. According to the composition of the polyester, the polyesters are characterized into aliphatic, aromatic and semi-aromatic. The aromatic reactant used helps to improve the hardness, rigidity, and heat resistance of the compound. The aliphatic acids and diols used helps to increase the flexibility and improve the processability. The double bonds present in the polyester act as a backbone which improve the resistance to softening and deformation caused at elevated temperature.
Properties of polyesters are shown below.
(1) Polyesters are generally strong.
(2) The durability of polyester is generally high. They show resistivity towards most of the chemicals.
(3) Polyesters are hydrophobic in nature and dry quickly.
(4) Polyesters are flexible and it easily regains its shape.
(5) Polyesters can be easily washed and dried.
Uses of polyesters are shown below.
(1) Polyesters are used in manufacturing of clothes.
(2) Polyesters are used in manufacturing of home furnishing materials like blankets, curtains, bedsheet etc.
(3) Polyesters are used in manufacturing of coated fabrics.
(4) Polyesters are used in manufacturing of dielectric film which are used in capacitors.
(5) Polyesters are used in manufacturing of mouse pads.

Note:
The polyester is commonly used as synthetic fibre which is prepared from petroleum products containing a large number of ester linkages.