Hydrophilic Modified Polyester Based on Waste PET Bottles

In this study, a hydrophilic modified polyester/PET fiber was prepared with waste PET bottles as a raw material. The PET bottles were first pelletized and used as both feed stock and for purified terephthalic acid (PTA) preparation. Glycolysis of PET bottle chips was performed to give purified PTA that was used in copolymer synthesis. Hydrophilic modified polyester was prepared from 5-sodiosulfoisophthalic acid (SIPA) and ethylene glycol, and this was copolymerized with purified PTA. The resulting alkali-soluble modified polyester and PET bottle chips were blended. After hollow spinning and alkali treatment, a good hydrophilic modified polyester fiber was obtained. Rheological properties of the modified fiber were studied, and the effect of alkali treatment on the thermal properties, water absorption, and morphology of the fibers were investigated.