When choosing which lanyards are best, one of the most common questions concerns the difference between lanyards made out of nylon and those manufactured from polyester.
While both of these materials are comprised of synthetic fibers and share many of the same qualities, they hold a few considerable differences from each other, including weight, breathability, stain resistance, and colour fastness.
Nylon Overview
Nylon is made through a chemical reaction in a process known as ring-opening polymerization. The molecules of the raw materials from which nylon is made are in ring form. But a chemical reaction, usually between adipoyl chloride and hexamethylene diamine causes the rings to open and flatten into curly strings that bond to one another. When nylon is stretched, the fibers become thin and smooth yet retain their strength.
Nylon is a group of synthetic polymers known as thermoplastics or aliphatic polyamides, which are derived from petroleum. It was originally manufactured as an alternative to silk, but its first commercial application was for toothbrush bristles in 1938 followed by women’s stockings in 1940.
Polyester Overview
Polyester is a term for a group of synthetic compounds that can be woven or knitted into fabric.
The most common form of polyester to be used as fabric is polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is also used to create several types of plastic bottles.
Like nylon, polyester is created through a chemical process involving a chain reaction. But the reaction occurs between mono ethylene glycol, purified terephthalic acid (PTA) and dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) to create bis terephthalate. When bis terephthalate is heated, it turns into PET, which is highly malleable and can be formed into long, thin and unbroken fibers.
Difference Between Nylon And Polyester
Nylon and polyester are very similar materials, and both may be used to manufacture lanyards. Because of this similarity, the material that is best suited for lanyards is largely dependent upon the buyer’s personal preferences and the specific type of nylon and polyester that is used.
Of the two materials, nylon is the stronger, and it is more stretchable than polyester is. This stretchability occurs because nylon absorbs a small amount of water while polyester does not absorb any. Because of the water absorption, nylon does not hold dye well, and it tends to fade quickly when exposed to the sun,so the dye sublimation printing technology is not suitable,screen printing and woven logo effect better, whereas dyes bond strongly to polyester and are unaffected by UV radiation. This also means that polyester is suitable for more printing techniques than nylon does.
The durability, mold resistance and ease of cleaning is so close between these two fabrics. However, Polyester is recommended for lanyards because it holds color longer, and the cost lower than nylon.
