As the textile industry continues to pursue material optimization, the performance comparison between acrylic and polyester yarns has always been a core issue of concern to designers and manufacturers.

1. Molecular-level competition of color retention
Polyester yarn exhibits excellent color fastness due to its unique polymer structure. The benzene ring structure contained in its molecular chain can effectively absorb ultraviolet rays, and combined with its hydrophobic properties to reduce the hydrolysis of dye molecules, the color difference value (ΔE) of polyester products is 42% lower than that of acrylic according to the 200-hour xenon lamp accelerated aging test in the Textech International laboratory. The nitrile-based structure of acrylic fiber is prone to photo-oxidation under long-term light exposure, especially red products generally show a brightness attenuation of more than 30% after 18 months of use.

2. Mechanical confrontation of morphological stability
Polyester yarn has a high elastic modulus of 3.5-5.5 GPa, which gives it an anti-creep advantage. In a two-year dynamic load test (ASTM D3107 standard), the elongation of polyester fabric increased by only 1.8%, significantly better than the 7.2% of acrylic. The American Association of Textile Chemists (AATCC) cyclic compression test showed that polyester cushion filling can still maintain 89% of its initial thickness after 50,000 compressions, while the loss rate of acrylic material reached 22% during the same period.

3. Advanced advantages of polyester yarn
Temperature tolerance: The melting point of 260℃ allows it to enhance shape memory through high-temperature shaping process
Moisture absorption and regulation: The new hollow polyester fiber achieves 0.3-0.5% intelligent humidity regulation ability
Sustainable upgrade: Chemical depolymerization technology enables recycled polyester to reach virgin quality, and the recycling rate exceeds 87%

4. Application scenario decision matrix
Outdoor equipment: Polyester occupies 82% of the market share
High-frequency washing and care fabrics: The size change rate of polyester products after 50 washes is ≤1.5%
Art weaving: Improved cotton-like polyester yarn begins to replace 35% of the traditional acrylic handmade thread market

Experimental data and market practice jointly confirm that polyester yarn has established significant advantages in long-term color retention and shape stability. Its continuous innovation of molecular modification and manufacturing processes is reshaping the application map of synthetic fibers. For brands pursuing product durability, polyester yarn has become a technically preferred solution that takes into account both performance and cost, while acrylic is more suitable for specific scenarios where short-term use and soft touch are required. With the breakthrough of bio-based polyester technology, this material competition is about to enter a new dimension of sustainable development.