Solvent-induced modifications in poly (ethylene terephthalate) structure, properties and dyeability

Abstract

Poly (ethylene terephthalate) fibre (PET) is the commonly used man-made fibre for majority of end-use applications. In the past few decades, the significant technological developments have taken place pertaining to the production processes of PET. Regarding the dyeing of PET, there is a constant upsurge in research and development activities to modify the structure of PET with a view to develop energy efficient processes. Among the notable developments, the low molecular weight solvent treatment results in physical modifications of polymer and fibre like PET, which include structural modifications and changes in properties. Owing to the structural modifications of PET fibre, the dyeability also improves. Some of the pioneering works on solvent-induced modifications of PET structure, properties and dyeability during the past few years have been reviewed.