Polyester cotton refers to a combination of cotton and polyester used together in the manufacture of different kinds of undergarments and clothing. There are different polyester cotton fabric properties which buyers consider when buying such as firmness, smoothness and the ability to dye easily and quickly. There are different polyester cotton fabric types currently being used in the apparel industry and they include:
Woven Fabric.
It is designed by interlacing weft and warp fibers in a regular or a weave style. The weave style used determines the polyester cotton fabric properties of your material in terms of surface smoothness, stability and drape. The most common styles under this category include satin (twill weave styles which are modified in order to produce less warp and weft intersection), twill (where warp fiber alternately and repeatedly weaves under and over the weft fiber) and plain (where there is alternate passing of the warp fiber under and over every weft fiber). Mechanical interlocking is ensured and maintained by the integrity of the fiber used.
Hybrid Fabric.
It is characterized by the presence of at least one type of structural fiber in its manufacture. Hybrid fabric takes form in different combinations such as glass and carbon, glass and aramid and carbon and aramid. Carbon /Aramid has a very low density and is relatively expensive. Glass, being compressive, and carbon, being stiff, makes the carbon / glass combination to be the most preferred brand by the buyers. When buying hybrid polyester cotton fabric, ensure that it has all the polyester cotton fabric properties such as light weight, ability not to shrink easily and the ability not to tear easily when the material is stretched.
Multiaxial Fabric.
This style is characterized by several layers of fibers (long fibers) that are held together using the secondary stitching tread. Because of its cost and its appropriate orientation of fiber, the stitching tread used is always polyester. The most common multiaxial fabrics are simultaneous stitch and weave and stitch. Multiaxial fabrics are commonly used in the manufacture of pillow cases and bed sheets. Though both polyester and cotton are used together, they are used in different ratios and proportions. Mostly, forty nine percent of polyester is combined with fifty one percent of cotton.
Unidirectional Fabric.
Majority of unidirectional fabric fibers run in one direction. Usually, the primary fibers are in zero degrees. However, this can be increased up to ninety degrees if rolling the length is desired. In order to ensure that the primary fabric is maintained together, different methods can be applied. These techniques include bonding, weaving and stitching. What basically controls the fabric’s drape is the construction style used. The selection and the appropriateness of the fiber’s tex determines the area weight of the fabric.
Conclusion.
Polyester cotton fabric is estimated to be at sixty three percent of the total annual production in the apparel industry worldwide. Sun resistance, resistance to shrinking, light weight, strength and the ability to get easily dyed are some of the polyester cotton fabric properties that make it very popular and highly demanded in the textile industry.
Characteristics of Polyester Cotton Fabric
Polyester cotton fabric is a popular textile known for its unique combination of properties that result from blending polyester and cotton fibers. These characteristics make it a versatile choice for various applications. Let’s dive into the key characteristics of polyester cotton fabric:
A. Blend Ratio and Variations
Polyester cotton fabric is created by blending polyester fibers with cotton fibers. The blend ratio can vary, with common combinations including 65/35 (65% polyester and 35% cotton) and 50/50. The blend ratio affects the fabric’s properties, such as its durability, softness, and breathability. Different ratios are chosen based on the desired characteristics for a specific application. For example, a higher polyester content may enhance durability, while a higher cotton content can increase breathability and softness.
B. Softness and Comfort
One of the standout features of polyester cotton fabric is its softness and comfort. Cotton fibers are naturally soft, and when combined with polyester, the resulting fabric offers a comfortable and pleasant feel against the skin. This softness makes it an excellent choice for clothing, bed linens, and other items where comfort is a priority.
C. Durability
Polyester cotton fabric benefits from the durability of polyester fibers. Polyester is known for its strength and resilience, which means that polyester cotton fabric is less prone to wear and tear than pure cotton fabrics. This durability is especially advantageous in clothing and textiles that need to withstand frequent use and washing.
D. Breathability
The blend of polyester and cotton also contributes to the fabric’s breathability. Cotton fibers have natural breathability and moisture-wicking properties, which help keep the wearer cool and dry. When combined with polyester, the fabric maintains these qualities while adding durability and crease resistance. As a result, polyester cotton fabric is a comfortable choice for clothing in various weather conditions.