Challenges and opportunities for Corterra PTT in textile fibers

Shell Chemicals Ltd. offer the polymer PTT (polytrimethylene terephthalate) under the Corterra trademark. PTT polymer is characterized by a low glass transition temperature (from 45-65° C). Joint working by Shell Chemicals and engineering company Zimmer AG, Germany, has developed a process by which POY bobbins are stabilized. Barmag AG, Germany, have been involved in a second POY stabilization process. The attractive properties of PTT polymers in textile applications are listed. The performance of filament yarns notes an elastic recovery for Corterra yarn better than that for PBT yarn as well as PET. No special machine settings are needed to process Corterra PTT yarn, but other processing parameters are described. Five identical interlock fabrics of drawn textured yarn of PTT, PET, PBT and PA 66 have been evaluated for elasticity, softness and abrasion with results shown in tabular form. Issues surrounding elasticity are discussed. The performance of staple fiber yarns is reviewed in conclusion.