The possibility of preventing the release of oligomers from PET fibers

Abstract

The problem of formation of low molecular fractions (oligomers) during the hydrothermal treatment of polyester (PET) fibers is described. An overview of the possible reactions for the formation of oligomers by the synthesis of polyethylene terephthalate fibers from bis(2-hydroxy-ethyl) terephthalate is given. Alkaline dyeing was described as a possibility to reduce the appearance of oligomers, which did not coexist in practice due to shortcomings. Alkaline pretreatment is described and the advantages of such pretreatment performed before conventional high-temperature (HT) dyeing are demonstrated. It was also explained that during the heat treatment of PET fibers with hot air, for the purpose of stabilizing the dimensions, there is a reduction in the formation of oligomers.