The influence of ionizing radiation on the physical properties of polyester multifilaments

Abstract

The polyester fibers stand out among the fibers used in the textile industry, due to their numerous factors that make them attractive in terms of cost-effectiveness. The interaction of ionizing radiation with the polyester substrate allows the formation of reactive species capable of stimulating structural modifications of the fiber and, consequently, altering its properties. In this sense, the present work proposes to analyze the influence of ionizing radiation on the physical properties of PES multifilaments. PES multifilament samples were exposed to Cobalt-60 gamma ionizing radiation, with doses ranging from 50 kGy to 200 kGy. The physical properties of tensile strength and elongation were verified. Gamma irradiation treatment proved to be effective in increasing the elongation and strength of the PES multifilament.