Aqueous solution stability and aggregation of water-dispersed polyester: Complex interactions with concentration, temperature, and electrolytes

Amphiphilic polymer water-dispersed polyester (WPET) has promising applications in the textile field. However, the stability of the WPET solution is easily influenced by external factors because of the potential interactions among the molecules of WPET. This paper focuses on the effects of concentration, temperature, and electrolyte on WPET aggregation behavior, and reveals the possible aggregation mechanism. The results show that WPET concentration, temperature, and electrolyte play important and complex roles in controlling the aggregation behaviors of the WPET. As temperature increases, the WPET can be better dispersed and less aggregated. In addition, Mg2+ and Ca2+ can accelerate the coagulation of WPET through electrostatic interaction and cross-linking with WPET. The addition of the chelating agent can greatly reduce the aggravating effect of Mg2+ or Ca2+ in solution on WPET molecular coagulation. These fundamental studies of WPET aggregation behavior can be used to effectively control and improve the stability of WPET solution.