Quality Improvement Email Essay

Quality management in healthcare facilities is organized to meet the needs of the organization. Today, most organizations have a program of continuous improvement in all functional areas. Data collection and analysis and resulting improvements have become an accepted way of doing business. An organization must address how it is going to achieve a successful Quality Improvement program (LaTour, p. 520). This paper is going to discuss the quality improvement in the health care industry along with stakeholders, roles, and resources to name a few. The purpose of quality management in the health care industry is to enhance the safety, efficiency and effectiveness of all businesses from health care processes and the performance of delivering products to human resources (The Purpose of QI Healthcare, 2014). The improvement is achieved using various methods, both qualitative and quantitative. With the passing of time, healthcare delivery has become more complex. There is a requirement for ne w and enhanced methods that will reduce costs and provide access to new technologies (The Purpose of QI Healthcare, 2014). Bringing a change into the system can facilitate the achievement of a new performance level. When a system remains unchanged over time and no enhancements are made, it cannot generate better results than the ones already created. The inefficient parts of the structure are replaced with new inventions that can prove to be worthy (The Purpose of QI Healthcare, 2014). Quality Management is needed because of competition. The primary goal is to beat the competition. It will add value at each stage of production defining long term plans for your company while at the same time providing a framework for it. The stakeholders define quality of care in various ways. Each stakeholder has different concerns relative to the  project’s objectives and goals (LaTour, p.808), which can translate, into different ratings of quality. â€Å"Exploratory interviews suggest that ratings are influenced by past experience, expectations, definitions of quality of care, and perceived power relationship s between stakeholders† (Campbell, 2004). Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has defined â€Å"stakeholders† as persons or groups that have a vested interest in a clinical decision and the evidence that supports that decision (The Effective Health Care Program Stakeholder Guide Chapter 3: Getting Involved in the Research Process). Stakeholders may be patients, caregivers, clinicians, researchers, advocacy groups, professional societies, businesses, policymakers, or others. Each group has a unique and valuable perspective. With quality improvement, there are roles that are involved. The leader’s role in promoting and developing quality improvement begins with creating and sustaining a personal and organizational focus on the needs of internal and external customers (Quality Improvement, 2014). A leader demonstrates a clear commitment to the organizational mission, values, goals, and expectation that promote quality and performance excellence through its actions. Key staff roles in a quality improvement p rogram are day-to-day leader, data entry person, provider champion, operations person, and data specialist. Monitoring provides the method to identify how the organization compares with the original opportunities for improvement and achieving those goals. (Wiley, 2007) Every area needs monitored because of providing every needs monitored because of providing patient can with any deficiency affect the entire hospital. Leaders determine the areas that need monitoring for improvement, monitoring the compliance of policies and procedures and standards for the hospital. The accrediting and regulatory agencies that are involved in the quality improvement process are The Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO). Joint Commission evaluates the quality of health care provided to the patient. They also requires that organizational leadership set expectations, plan, manage how to measure, assess, and improve in all aspects of providing care (LaTour, p.521). Another agency that is involved is the United States Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) which represents the federal funded agency that focuses on improving the health care. The federal government mandates the areas for monitoring for quality, for example, preventive care,  infection control, fall rates, and chronic disease management. (HRHA, 2013) National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) represents the accrediting agencies for the hospitals. It also evaluates the quality of health care provided to the patient. In conclusion, there are many resources for helping the improvement of quality. The patient, providers, nurses and management plays a part in the improvement that will guide to reach desired levels of performance. An organization that affects quality improvement is Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). AHRQ is the lead Federal agency charged with improving the quality, safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of health care for all Americans. (Quality Improvement Organizations) The accrediting and regulatory organizations protect the public the regular reporting quality measures of the health care facility. References: LaTour, K. (2010), Health Information Management Quality Improvement Organizations Retrieved from: http://www.aap.org/en-us/professional-resources/practice-support/quality-improvement/Pages/Quality-Improvement-Organizations.aspx Quality Improvement, Retrieved from: http://www.hrsa.gov/quality/toolbox/methodology/qualityimprovement/part2.html The Effective Health Care Program Stakeholder Guide: Chapter 3: Getting Involved in the Research Process. February 2014. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Rockville, MD. http://www.ahrq.gov/research/findings/evidence-based-reports/stakeholderguide/chapter3.html The Purpose Of Quality Improvement in Healthcare, Retrieved from: http://www.sixsigmaonline.org/six-sigma-training-certification-information/the-purpose-of-quality-improvement-in-healthcare.html Campbell, S. (2004) How do stakeholder groups vary in a Delphi technique about primary mental health care and what factors influence their ratings?

How Trees Improve Environment

Trees are ancient living organisms that existed since the creation of the Earth and have been crucial to the Earth’s ecosystem. The age of a tree is determined by cambium, a layer of growing bark, which forms a ring in the wood of the tree. Each ring of cambium, tells the age of the tree. The climate can also determine how fast a tree grows. For instance, in cool climates, cambium only grows in the spring and summer. But there are some cases where you cannot determine the age of trees, like the trees in a tropical rain forest. The cambium grows all year round. Yet these trees do not have rings. Consequently without the cambium rings, it is difficult to tell the age of these species trees. Since trees have an s As told in the Holy Bible, â€Å"And the Lord God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground—trees that were pleasing to the eye and good for food. In the middle of the garden were the tree of life and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. † Just as is stated in the Bible, there are all kinds of trees, in all kinds of shapes and sizes. But how important are trees? If all the trees were removed from the Earth, what impact would this have on the environment? Determining the answers to these questions will be a guide in learning about the importance and value of trees in the ecosystem. Trees can have a positive effect on the climate, by shading the ground, trees cool off the Earth’s temperature. Strategically planting trees around air conditioners, windows and the walls which receive the most sun will help in reducing energy costs. Normally, the best position to plant trees is on the west, east and south. It really depends on a specific geographical location. However, according to American Forests’ research, even urban cities get the benefit of cooler temperatures from trees within distances of 35 miles. In fact, American Forests’ research determined that trees saved approximately $2. 8 million annually to Atlanta’s metro city as well as an annual savings for other metro areas across the United States. In addition, in 1991 a partnership between American Forests and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) along with other partners developed the Cool Communities program to promote trees as energy conservation tools. This program was a great success. It helped to educate the public on the ecological and economical importance of trees. But how do trees cleanse the air we breathe? Trees actually eat up the carbon dioxide that is emitted by cars, trucks and factories then releases oxygen (clean air) for us to breathe. Its almost like we feed them the carbon and they repay us with clean breathable air. The fact is one tree can absorb 48lbs of carbon annually and at the same time release enough oxygen to support two human beings. An acre of trees absorb 2. 6 tons annually which is enough carbon dioxide to cover the emissions from a car that is driven 26,000 miles. It is safe to say that we can all aid in having pure breathable air just by planting one tree. The U. S. Forest Service states that during a period of 40 years (1952 to 1992) an estimated 309 million tons of carbon was removed by trees. This is another reason why trees improve our environment.

The Relationship between Impulse Buying and Sensation Seeking Essay

The Relationship between Impulse Buying and Sensation Seeking - Essay Example The results revealed that the data from the Impulse Buying variable was normally distributed unlike that for the Sensation Seeking variable. The results furtherv showed that there was a weak positive correlation between sensation seeking and impulse buying, rs= .762, n = 30, p = > .05. The results hence failed to support the hypothesis. Sensation seeking is the â€Å"need for varied, novel, complex sensations and experiences, and the willingness to take physical and social risks for the sake of such experiences† (Zuckermann, 1979, p265). Sensation seekers are risk takers. Their main aim is to get and enjoy the gratification that comes immediately after a certain activity. Impulse buying is purchasing items without having planned to buy them (Rook, 1987). Impulse buying behaviour is closely related to sensation seeking. The need for unique experiences as well as the willingness to take risks so as to fulfil these experiences is some of the reasons for impulse buying (Youn and F aber, 2000 and Verplanken and Herabadi, 2001). This topic which focuses on impulse buying and sensation seeking behaviours has been chosen due to the similarities in the two behaviours. Sensation seeking normally leads to impulse buying, a behaviour that is widely characterised by sensation seeking tendencies (Reynolds, Ortengren Richards, 2006). Sensation seeking has been described as the pursuit of the novel and/or intense and complex sensations. According to Rook (1987), there are many things that sensation seekers do that are not risky. There are those sensation seekers whose main aim is to experience the thrill ad adventure that comes with participating in a certain high-risk activity (Arnett, 1994). There are other people who prepare budgets, but they nevertheless end up buying thing that they had not planned to buy. Then is also a category of people who just buy anything they think will delight them (Zuckerman, 2007). They do not have to make any kind of budget because they d o not mind buying out of the blues. In many cases of impulse buying, an individual normally experiences a persistently powerful urge to purchase the product immediately without putting much thought into the consequences of buying the product (Rook, 1987). Some researchers have found that people who have high sensation seeking tendencies are likely to have high risk tendencies in their financial lives. Impulse buying is a relatively high risk tendency (Horvath and Zuckerman, 1993). According to Reynolds, Ortengren and Richards (2006), individuals who show signs of maladaptive shopping behaviours are more likely to suffer from distress and financial constraints. Most of these individuals are women. Such people are likely to experience some form of anxiety or relief before they make their purchases. This shows that there could be some relation between impulse buying and sensation seeking. For instance, when individuals feel anxiety and the need to cool down the anxious attacks, then th is could said to be sensation seeking. Impulse buyers live for excitement (Zuckerman and Neeb, 1979). Impulse buying is a rather exciting undertaking that sensation seekers normally find to be satisfactory. They think only of the immediate gratification, not of what may come after. An impulsive sensation seeker normally lacks the ability to process information cognitively when the need arises (Zuckerman, 2007). The need to satisfy a certain sensation is more important to

E- Marketing for New Companies Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 4250 words

E- Marketing for New Companies - Essay Example Chatterjee (2009) has noted that the competition among start-up companies can be high. It is also explained that most of these companies need to reach a high number of customers, usually worldwide (Chatterjee 2009), a target that it is difficult to be achieved without the use of the Internet and social media. Â  The current paper focuses on a particular form of marketing, the e-marketing, which is often described as internet marketing. Reference is made specifically to the current status of e-marketing and its value for promoting the products/ services of a start-up company. The literature related to the specific issue has been reviewed and evaluated in order to decide whether and at what level e-marketing can be effective in promoting a start-up company. It is revealed that e-marketing would be the most appropriate form of marketing for developing such activity. On the other hand, there are many e-marketing strategies available to start-up companies that need to promote their products/ services. This means that e-marketing is a valuable tool for promoting start-up companies but it cannot perform high unless it is effectively managed, as all other tools that support modern business operations. Moreover, it should be noted that e-marketing cannot secure the success of start-up companies b ut only in cases when its involvement in the marketing of these companies is carefully planned and monitored so that unexpected failures, that can be major, are avoided. Â  In order to understand the role of e-marketing in the promotion of start-up companies, it should be necessary to explain the key characteristics and advantages of e-marketing, as a concept closely related to the advances of technology and the changes in customer trends worldwide.

Analyse article Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

Analyse article - Essay Example Schaper further argues that in a competitive market environment effective and efficient firms survive while the inefficient businesses collapse. Considering the remarks by the president of Toyota Company, the business may have faced serious competition from other vehicle manufacturers in Australia such as Elfin Sports Cars Pty Ltd, Ford Performance Vehicles, and GM Holden Ltd as well as competition in the export markets of other countries that offer favorable vehicle manufacturing conditions. Another factor that contributed to the decision by Toyota Company is high cost of production attributed to the high labor costs (BBC News Business 10 February 2014). Under normal circumstances, the cost of production in an organization is usually lower giving enough room for profit realization when products are sold. However, the Toyota Company based in Australia experienced reduction in profits and eventually loses in the production of vehicles due to the increased production cost. The company tried to solve the problem of increased labor costs through proposed changes in employee contracts that would have resulted in removal of additional allowances and changes in overtime (BBC News Business 10 February 2014) but the implementation was blocked in a Federal Court. The other critical factor that contributed to the decision by Toyota Company is lack of government support. According to Ch et al., government policies have both positive and negative impacts on businesses operating in the country in question (2011, p.941). In the case of Toyota Company, the impacts of policy changes by Australian government left the company with negative business effects. To begin with, a national commission recommended to the government that subsidies that were initially given to the car manufacturing industry should be stopped and that the companies should device ways of cutting down the production cost (BBC News Business 10 February 2014). Secondly, the proposed changes on employee

The Sales Related Issues of Thorntons PLC Term Paper

The Sales Related Issues of Thorntons PLC - Term Paper Example The industry in which the company operates is very competitive and apt strategies are needed to gain a competitive advantage over other firms. For this purpose a situational analysis will be conducted taking into account both micro-environment and macro-environment. Finally, a SWOT analysis of the company will be conducted in order to understand the present position of the company and the external factors that can benefit or hurt the company in the future. This section will include a commentary on the most important factors of the macro-environment in the chocolate industry. Political The political environment of the United Kingdom is relatively stable. The company does not have to worry about the problems of a turbulent political environment that are prevalent in developing markets. There are although specific regulations regarding marketing of food items that the company has to abide by at all times. In order to prevent childhood obesity, the government is looking to reduce chocola te sizes and that will affect the company (Daily Mail UK, 2009). Regulations such as these can affect a change in production, marketing, and distribution strategy of the company. Economical Economic conditions of the United Kingdom are not ideal and the country is still feeling jolts from the economic recession of 2008. But still, the situation of the chocolate industry is considerably better compared to other industries. The industry has been able to survive the recession and, opposite to other industries, has shown growth as well (Piercy, Cravens, & Lane, 2010). Although the chocolate industry is generally regarded as one of those industries that were able to survive the recession, Hull city’s economic conditions are not good which may not be good news for the chocolate industry. The unemployment level in the city is higher than the country average (Hull City Council, 2011). This is not a good sign for the chocolate companies operating in the region. Socio-cultural The cult ure of gift giving at Christmas is the main reason behind the increase in sales of chocolates in this season.  

Social Discrimination Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Social Discrimination - Essay Example The need is to analyze three parties of the matter as virtue theory stresses over people. Helping vulnerable group in a company is moral and ethical. It is a healthy practice to aid vulnerable people. Once the black workers acquire skills, white workers will rethink about their attitude and black workers will be better paid and respected since the action is within moral grounds. Consequently, the action of Kaiser is ethical as the primary objective is to vanish discrimination within the company. More skills and knowledge would let the black workers acquire more influence. The experience of Weber is frustrating but the need is to coup with large scale issue. Most appropriate theory for the case is Utilitarian Theory and Justice Theory. The utility of black workers is higher than that of white workers. Hence ethical way is to provide more opportunities for the black workers. Considering Justice Theory, the present condition of the company shows inequality of the black workers. The theory suggests providing more opportunities to the black workers. The caring theory is also applicable while viewing the inter-racial relationship of the workers. It is ethically correct to enhance the position of black workers so they earn respect and stay in the equal relationship with the white workers. Virtue theory is also important in this context as the managers will deploy the existing method to reach equal level. Rights theory is least effective for the case of discrimination is ignored.

Historiography Of The Dobama Movement In Burma Essay

Historiography Of The Dobama Movement In Burma - Essay Example The Dobama Asiayone Movement was initially formed by a group of several similar-minded young individuals who were essentially consumed with the idea of attempting to try and deliver their country from the rule of the aliens. Although the different members that formed the group were seen to be drawn from quite diverse economic and social backgrounds, they were tightly bound together by an overwhelming desire to secure their country’s national independence1. The group opted to adopt the suffix of â€Å"Thakin† in their name as opposed to adopting other common suffixes such as Maung, Ko or even U. The Term â€Å"Thakin† was seen to commonly be used in reference to Master or Lord2. The first individual to attempt to promote the use of the suffix of Thakin among the country’s population was the Abbot U Sandima who had been instrumental in instructing the villagers to adopt the practice of hanging on their houses various name plates that used the Thakin titles s o as to be able to adequately develop a conscious sense of the overall superiority that the Burmans as a race had over other races. It is thought that Thankin Ba Thoung who was the founder of the Dobama Asiayone was so impressed by the adoption of these practices while visiting the village of Wetkathay that upon his eventual return to Rangoon he immediately made a suggestion to his close friends that they should try and adopt the use of the the Thakin appellation. Although his friends agreed to adopt the use of the appellation, it was noted that they adopted it in a somewhat reluctant manner3. Thakin Ba Thoung and the Founding of the Dobama Asiayone The early life of Thakin Ba Thoung the Dobama Asiayone group is found to be relatively obscure. Thoung was initially a protege of U Tun Shein who was one of the three key delegates of the Young Men’s Buddhist Association who was sent to represent the Association in London on July 7th, 1919. The association sent the three delegates to London to go and protest on matters pertaining to the Craddock Scheme. The Craddock scheme was initially proposed by Sir Reginald Craddock in 1918-1920. Although the Burmese were seen to be actively trying to gain more political rights, the scheme that was drafted by Sir Reginald Craddock was seen to widely draw massive criticism from nearly all Burmese leaders in the country. The scheme failed to placate the Burmese leaders and only served to increase their dissatisfaction. The nationalist leaders in Burma argued that it was vital for Burma to be granted a set of suitable reforms. The leaders also demanded that the government should delay any actions on their part to attempt to approve the University act until after such reforms were actually instituted4. Ba Thoung was seen to first come to public notice upon winning a translation prize in 1930 that saw him receive Rs. 1,000. Ba Thoung regularly met and discussed the country’s political and social conditions of the time with several of his young friends and in 1928, Ba Thoung and his young friends attempted to try and attract public attention to the fact that the current existing political parties were having a rather disastrous effect on the country. However, this play was soon to flop but the relatively obscure group was seen to quickly be brought to the forefront and play a critical role in the country’s political arena after the bloody event of the May 26th, 1930 Indo-Burmese riots5. The events of the Indo-Burmese riots were seen to unfold when some 2,000 Telegu dock workers organized and went on strike protesting against the Scindia Steam Navigation co. Ltd. Although the company was seen to

Shakespeare Explication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Shakespeare Explication - Essay Example Their love can not be accepted by society, because the family has to approve it first. In this sense love is impossible and tragic. When lovers meet they can experience only "momentany" and momentary passions. Their encounters are short and painful, because they can not fully dedicate each other to the moment of pleasure. They are afraid that they might be seen or caught. That is why their union is "Swift as a shadow, short as any dream". Love is the primary idea around which the play is built up and throughout the scenes we audience is presented with different forms of love. Love is arbitrary and irrational. Compassion and kindness can also inflame passions. Where does this passage stand in the meaning of the whole scene 1 from Act 1. Lysander and Hermia are in love. However, her father Egeus is planning to marry his daughter to Demetrius and is very angry that she refuses. During scene 1 Lysander is trying to convince the public that he deserves Hermia and is equal to Demetrious. What is more he has true feelings to Hermia, whereas Demetrious had a recent affair with Helena. Regardless of his, Helena's tormented by love too, because Demetrious is indifferent to her. And in powerless attempt to win his love, Helena tells him about Hermia's and Demetrious plan to escape from Athens. Unfortunately, the more Helena loves Demetrious, the more he despises her. Love is unexplainable, because there is no reason why Demetrious should not love Helena. If Hermia chooses Lysander she will be punished, just like he describes "War, death, or sickness did lay siege to" true love. At the end of the scene Lysander tries to explain to Hermia that all lovers reach to such moment in their lives, and that this is the only possible course for the true love they have for each other. In Lysander's monologue he is prolific in metaphors to express the nature of love - it is "swift" it is fleeting like the "shadow" it is evanescent as a dream, it is quick as a flash of lighting in a midsummer night. The brevity of love described by Lysander forms the overall feeling that love can not be everlasting when lovers hide their emotions. The course of true love never runs smoothly. Class differences and family bonds "did lay siege to it". Even when love is mutual and is based on sympathy, it often meets the family disapproval. The memories and flashes of love "unfolds" and displays where is the heaven, blissful state and where is the bitter reality. The lovers can not be left alone, they have to be punished for their disobedience. From the background knowledge, love and law are opposed in the play - whether to obey the law and marry the one that your family prefers, or to flee and die for the one you love. Love and law are juxtaposed throughout the play, as well as the motifs of choice, freedom and social values. After the brevity of experiencing their

Proposed Capstone Project Essay Example for Free

Proposed Capstone Project Essay To implement the system in an online environment. To design a database that will organize blotter related information and records. To provide a search facility for finding and filtering of records. To include a module that will facilitate updating of reported blotters. To generate statistical reports pertinent for decision making. Project Description Police officers are assigned at the police stations to encode the complaints, police reports, and crime incidents reported in their areas of responsibilities (AOS) directly into their computers connected online. All police precinct blotter records are visible in the web server anytime of the day. At the end of the day, each police station prints their day’s journal using the system. System Platform: Web Application utilizing HTML5, PHP, MySQL, and CSS. System Functionalities [Include your HIPO in this part. Make sure all functionalities are stated here. I suggest, you divide your features in terms of Client and Server Side. Client Side may still be divided in terms of your users. These features are still based on the SE Project which is PC-Based, you have not specified features when it will be implemented online.] Management of blotter cases. (inc: Creating blotter and archiving blotter case) Viewing of records. (by case number, name, date) Generating statistical reports in graphical models. Generate and queue reports. The system will generate reports such as the following: Number of blotter incidents per barangay Most common cases per barangay Monthly/Quarterly/Annually report of blotter cases Individual Blotter Report The individual reports are collated into single reports which can be accessed by City of Santa Rosa Police Headquarters Superintendent for his information and use. Statistical Report Graphical representation of most common cases annually for comparative purpose. Chart for areas with frequent cases reported. The purpose of this report is to monitor and isolate areas with the most number of incidents. And also use for decision making and for development of solutions. Read This: http://books.google.com.ph/books?id=9XcWAAAAQBAJpg=PA93dq=Computerized+Blotter+Systemhl=ensa=Xei=QfQzVKXqJ8-coQS07IHYDAved=0CCMQ6AEwAA#v=onepageq=Computerized%20Blotter%20Systemf=false http://www.gmanetwork.com/news/story/118908/news/nation/qc-police-to-have-computerized-blotter-system-in-2-months https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.444684698888025.97968.160481633975001type=3 http://www.slideshare.net/jobitonio/pnp-infromation-communication-management-eblotter-program http://www.studymode.com/essays/Blotter-System-1312101.html http://www.studymode.com/essays/Capstone-Project-1178085.html

Polyester: History, Development and Applications

Polyester: History, Development and Applications ABSTRACT:Â   Polyester is a synthetic fiber derived from coal, air, water, and petroleum. Polyester fibers are formed from a chemical reaction between an acid and alcohol, and is developed in a 20th-century laboratory. In the formation of polyester reaction, two or more molecules combine to make a large molecule whose structure repeats throughout its length. Polyester fibers can form very long molecules that are very stable and strong. Polyester has been considered to have several advantages over traditional fabrics such as cotton. One of its most important quality is that it does not absorb moisture, but does absorb oil; this quality makes polyester the perfect fabric for the application of water-, soil-, and fire-resistant finishes. Its another quality, that is, low absorbency also makes it naturally resistant to stains. Polyester is used in the manufacture of many products, including clothing, home furnishings, industrial fabrics, computer and recording tapes, and electrical insulation. As we go along further, we would see the various uses of polyester in all the several fields such as clothing, furnishing, etc. Fabrics woven from polyester thread or yarn are used extensively in apparel and home furnishings, from shirts and pants to jackets and hats, bed sheets, blankets and upholstered furniture. Industrial polyester fibers, yarns and ropes are used in tire reinforcements, fabrics for conveyor belts, safety belts, coated fabrics and plastic reinforcements with high-energy absorption. Polyester fiber is used as cushioning and insulating material in pillows, comforters and upholstery padding. We would discuss in detail the history of polyester, the method of manufacturing of polyester, its various uses, and its importance in our day to day life, how much we use polyester in our life without really noticing that it is polyester we are using. INTRODUCTION: In short we can say that polyester is a category of polymers which contain the ester functional group in their main chain. Even though there are many types of polyester, the term polyester as a specific material most commonly refers to polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Polyesters include naturally-occurring chemicals. Naturally occurring chemicals include that are found in nature and are not man-made such as in the cut in of plant cuticles. An example of synthetic fiber is synthetics through step-growth polymerization such as polycarbonate and polybutyrate. Generally natural polyesters and even a few synthetic ones are biodegradable, that is, they can break down or decay naturally without any special treatment, and can therefore be thrown away without causing pollution. Whereas on the other hand, most synthetic polyesters, which are more commonly used, are not biodegradable. Polyester is a term often defined as long-chain polymers chemically composed of at least 85% by weight of an ester and a dihydric alcohol and a terephthalic acid. In simpler terms, it means that polyester is the linking of several esters within the fibers. Reaction of alcohol with carboxylic acid results in the formation of esters. Polyester also refers to the various polymers in which the backbones are formed by the esterification condensation of polyfunctional alcohols and acids. Polyester can also be classified as saturated and unsaturated polyesters. Saturated polyesters refer to that family of polyesters in which the polyester backbones are saturated. They are thus not as reactive as unsaturated polyesters. The saturated polyesters consist of low molecular weight liquids used as plasticizers and as reactants in forming urethane polymers, and linear, high molecular weight thermoplastics such as polyethylene terephthalate (Dacron and Mylar). Usual reactants for the saturated polyesters are a glycol and an acid or anhydride. Unsaturated polyesters refer to that family of polyesters in which the backbone consists of alkyl thermosetting resins characterized by vinyl unsaturation. They are mostly used in reinforced plastics. These are the most widely used and economical family of resins. Characteristics of polyester Polyester fabrics and fibers are extremely strong and thus durable. Polyester is very durable: it is resistant to most chemicals, stretching and shrinking, wrinkle resistant, mildew and abrasion resistant. Polyester is hydrophobic in nature, that is, these molecules and quick drying. It can be used for insulation by manufacturing hollow fibers. Polyesters quality to retain its shape is good for making outdoor clothing for harsh climates. Polyester can be easily washed and dried, without the added tension of ironing and all because it does not form wrinkles. HISTORY OF POLYESTER: Polyester became famous for Scrunch it, pull it, and wash it without any wear and wrinkles. Polyester was the fabric of choice in an economy that was changing in terms of speed, efficiency and convenience. The textile industrys answer to food industry producing fries and coke was the production of Polyester quick, cheap and easy. Carothers Work It was W.H.Carothers who discovered that alcohols and carboxyl acids could be successfully mixed to create fibers. Carothers was working for DuPont at the time and unfortunately when he discovered Nylon, polyester took a back seat. PET Terylene The incomplete research of Carothers had not advanced to investigating the polyester formed from mixing ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid. Whinfield and Dickson 2 British scientists are the ones who patented PET or PETE in 1941. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) forms the basis for synthetic fibers like Dacron, Terylene and polyester. Later that year, the first polyester fiber Terylene was created by Whinfield and Dickson along with Birtwhistle and Ritchiethey. Terylene was first manufactured by Imperial Chemical Industries or ICI. DuPonts Role It was in 1946 that DuPont bought all legal rights from ICI, that is, Imperial Chemical Industries. In 1950, the Dealware property of DuPont manufactured another polyester fiber, which they named Dacron. Mylar was introduced in 1952. Polyester was first introduced to the American public in 1951 as the magical fabric that needed no ironing! PET and PEN are DuPont trademarks that have turned the use and consumption of Polyester around. Polyester Becomes Popular Subsequent to the development of Terylene and Dacron, Kodel was developed by Eastman Chemical Products, Inc in 1958. The polyester market underwent rapid expansion and textile mills emerged everywhere. Many of the mills were located at small gas stations and produced cheap polyester apparel. The inexpensive and durable fiber became very popular and the industry expanded rapidly till the 1970s. Unfortunately, the infamous double-knit polyester image hit the industry and polyester soon came to be known as the uncomfortable fabric. The Phoenix Rises Today, polyester is largely regarded as a cheap fabric that is rather uncomfortable for sensitive human skin to wear. It is also not preferred because of its highly inflammable properties. However, the emergence of luxury fibers like polyester microfiber and various polyester blends, the polyester industry is once again on its way to a grand come back. The Tennessee Eastman Company and the Man-Made Fiber Producers Associations (MMFPA) Polyester Fashion Council played a significant role in the revival of polyester. The Tennessee Eastman Company started a YES campaign for polYESter and popularized it via radio and television. The main idea was to focus on the wash and go properties of polyester rather than sell it as a cheap fabric. Hoechst Fibers Industries also played a part in the history of polyester. They conducted various studies from 1981 to 1983 and found that 89% of people could not distinguish between polyester and other natural fibers like cotton, wool and silk. Also, it was found that people were more interested in the appearance of the apparel than the fabric it was made of. Today, the biggest contributor to the appeal of polyester is the discovery of microfibers. Microfibers give polyester the feel of silk and are rapidly becoming the choice of fabric. With an expensive tag to match, the cheap image of polyester seems to be on its way out. Heres to heralding a new era in the history of polyester! MANUFACTURING OF POLYESTER: Polyester Manufacturing Polyester fibers or the synthetic fibers are long chain polymers which are derived from coal, air, water, and petroleum. They are formed through chemical reaction between an acid and alcohol, which forms ester. In this reaction, two or more molecules combine to make a large molecule whose structure repeats throughout its length. These molecules are very stable and strong. There are variations in the compositions and therefore in the properties of polyester fibers. Types of Polyester PHYPERLINK http://www.teonline.com/fibers-yarns-threads/polyester-fiber.htmlolyester fibers are generally available in two varieties- PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and PCDT (poly-1, 4-cyclohexylene-dimethylene terephthalate). PET is the most common production of polyester. It is stronger than PCDT, while PCDT has more elasticity and resilience. Another advantage of PET is that it can be used alone or blended with other fabrics for making wrinkle free and stain resistant clothing that can retain its shape. PCDT is more suitable for heavier applications. These heavier applications include draperies and furniture coverings. Modifications can be introduced in each of these varieties for obtaining specific properties. Raw Materials Polyester is a chemical term which can be broken into poly, meaning many, and ester, a basic organic chemical compound. The principle ingredient used in the manufacture of polyester is ethylene, which is derived from petroleum. In this process, ethylene is the polymer, the chemical building block of polyester, and the chemical process that produces the finished polyester is called polymerization. PET Polyester For manufacturing PET Polyester, the main raw material is ethylene derived from petroleum. This ethylene is oxidized to produce a glycol monomer dihydric alcohol which is further combined with another monomer, terephthalic acid at a high temperature in a vacuum. Polymerization, the chemical process that produces the finished polyester, is done with the help of catalysts. Catalysts are used to speed up the rate of a reaction. Then a colorless molten polyester is formed which then flows from a slot in a vessel on to a casting wheel and takes shape of a ribbon as it cools to hardness. The polymer thus produced by this process is then cut into very small chips, dried to remove all moisture and blended to make it uniform for getting it ready for spinning into yarn. PCDT Polyester This variation of polyester is made by condensing terephthalic acid with 1, 4-cyclohexane-dimethanol to form poly-1, 4-cyclohexylene-dimethylene terephthalate or the PCDT Polyester. As for PET Polyester, PCDT is processed for melt spinning. Spinning Polymer chips are melted at 500-518ÂÂ °F (260-270ÂÂ °C) to form a syrup-like solution. The polymer, which is now in a molten form, is then extruded through a spinneret and the filaments are subsequently drawn into the desired polyester fiber. Variations are introduced to obtain desired end results. Spinnerets having hole of different shapes such as round, trilobal, pentalobal, hexalobal or octalobal can be used for special effects like opacity, luster or its suppression, wicking, comfort or feel. Hollow fibers may be produced to make it lightweight and for providing greater cushioning or insulative properties. Crepe effect can be obtained through crimps. Certain additives may also be combined with the spinning solutions for specific properties. Delusterant can be added to make the fiber dull, a flame retardant may be added or certain other antistatic substance may also be included. The product stream divides into two different application areas which are mainly textile applications and packaging applications, after the first stage of polymer production in the melt phase. In the table shown below, the main applications of textile and packaging polyester are listed. Textile Packaging Staple fiber (PSF) Bottles for CSD, Water, Beer, Juice, Detergents Filaments POY, DTY, FDY A-PET Film Technical yarn and tire cord Thermoforming Non-woven and spun bond BO-PET Biaxial oriented Film Mono-filament Strapping Abbreviations: PSF = Polyester Staple Fiber; POY = Partially Oriented Yarn; DTY = Draw Textured Yarn; FDY = Fully Drawn Yarn; CSD = Carbonated Soft Drink; A-PET = Amorphous Polyester Film; BO-PET = Biaxial Oriented Polyester Film; Drawing After extrusion from the spinneret, the fibers are drawn or elongated, with the help of godet wheels. The polyester fibers are usually drawn up to five times its original length, depending upon the desired properties. The filaments are drawn to a greater extent, for higher tenacity. When the fibers come in contact with the air, they solidify. Generally, the PET fibers are drawn hot as it produces more uniform fibers. PCDT fibers are drawn at higher temperature because of their higher melting point. During the drawing process itself, fibers may be textured which saves time, efforts and production cost and also gives greater quality control over the finished fibers. After the polyester yarn is drawn, it is wound on large bobbins or flat-wound packages, ready to be woven into material. Types of Polyester Yarns Polyester yarns have a wide range of diameters and staple lengths. The yarns are made basically as monofilament yarns, multifilament yarns and spun yarns. Filament Yarns PET Polyester is used to make filament yarns either in monofilament or multifilament forms. The direction and amount of twists are decided by the desired end use. The properties are also pre-determined. There are various types of such yarns. There is the bright, regular tenacity polyester yarn having light, stretch and sag resistance, used for sheer lightweight fabrics like tulle, voile and organdy. The regular tenacity semi dull yarn used for various apparels including lingerie. Its duller version is used for shirts and blouses. Polyester yarns resistant to various chemicals, and micro organisms are produced from high tenacity fibers for such industrial uses as conveyor belts, ropes and nets etc. Textured Yarns These yarns are made of PET multifilaments. Texturizing is either done along with the drawing process or afterwards during throwing or texturizing process. Spun Yarns Spun yarns are made of staple or cut PET or PCDT polyester fibers. The staple may be bright, semi dull or dull and tenacity may be regular, mid or high. It may be polished to reduce crimp and increase luster. It may either be spun alone or blended with other staple such as cotton, wool or rayon and then spun into yarn. Manufacturing Staple Fiber In making polyester staple fiber, polymerization, drying, and melt spinning are much the same as in the manufacture of filament yarn. However, in the melt spinning process, the spinneret has many more holes when the product is staple fiber. The rope-like bundles of polyester that emerge are called tow. Drawing tow * 1: Newly-formed tow is quickly cooled in cans that gather the thick fibers. Several lengths of tow are gathered and then drawn on heated rollers to three or four times their original length. Crimping * 2: Drawn tow is then fed into compression boxes, which force the fibers to fold like an accordion, at a rate of 9-15 crimps per inch (3-6 per cm). This process helps the fiber hold together during the later manufacturing stages. Setting *3: After the tow is crimped, it is heated at 212-302ÂÂ °F (100-150ÂÂ °C) to completely dry the fibers and set the crimp. Some of the crimp will unavoidably be pulled out of the fibers during the following processes. Cutting * 4: Following heat setting, tow is cut into shorter lengths. Polyester that will be blended with cotton is cut in 1.25-1.50 inch (3.2-3.8 cm) pieces; for rayon blends, 2 inch (5 cm) lengths are cut. For heavier fabrics, such as carpet, polyester filaments are cut into 6 inch (15 cm) lengths. Synthesis Synthesis of polyesters is generally achieved by a polycondensation reaction. See condensation reactions in polymer chemistry. The General equation for the reaction of a diol with a diacid is: (n+1) R (OH) 2 + n RÂÂ ´ (COOH) 2 > HO [ROOCRÂÂ ´COO] n ROH + 2n H2O Azeotrope esterification In this classical method, an alcohol and a carboxylic acid react to form a carboxylic ester. To assemble a polymer, the water formed by the reaction must be continually removed by azeotrope distillation. Acylation (HCl method) The acid begins as an acid chloride, and thus the polycondensation proceeds with emission of hydrochloric acid (HCl) instead of water. This method can be carried out in solution or as an enamel. Silyl method In this variant of the HCl method, the carboxylic acid chloride is converted with the trimethyl silyl ether of the alcohol component and production of trimethyl silyl chloride is obtained Acetate method (esterification) Silyl acetate method Ring-opening polymerization Aliphatic polyesters can be assembled from lactones under very mild conditions, catalyzed anionically, cationically or metallorganically. Cross-linking Unsaturated polyesters are thermosetting resins. They are generally copolymers prepared by polymerizing one or more diol with saturated and unsaturated dicarboxylic acids (maleic acid, fumaric acid) or their anhydrides. The double bond of unsaturated polyesters reacts with a vinyl monomer mainly the styrene, resulting in a 3-D cross-linked structure. This structure acts as a thermoset. The cross-linking is initiated through an exothermic reaction involving an organic peroxide, such as methyl ethyl ketone peroxide or benzoyl peroxide. APPLICATION OF POLYESTER: Polyester is used in manufacturing of many products, such as clothing, home furnishings, industrial fabrics, computer, recording tapes, and electrical insulation. It has several advantages over traditional fabrics as it does not absorb moisture. Its low absorbency also makes it naturally resistant to stains. Polyester clothing can be preshrunk in the finishing process. This makes it resist shrinking and it doesnt stretch out of shape. The fabric can be dyed easily, and is mildew resistant too. Textured polyester fibers are an effective, nonallergenic insulator, thus it is used for filling pillows, quilting, outerwear, and sleeping bags. Because of their many desirable qualities, polyester fibers and fabrics have many uses. Polyester is often used in outerwear because of its high tenacity and durability. It is a strong fiber and consequently can withstand strong and repetitive movements. Its hydrophobic property makes it ideal for garments and jackets that are to be used in wet or damp environmentscoating the fabric with a water-resistant finish intensifies this effect. Many jackets and quilted garments are made of polyester. Since polyester can be molded into almost any shape, certain insulating properties can be built-in to the fiber. One method is to create hollow fibers: This process traps air inside the fiber which is then heated by the body. The warm air stays inside and helps warm the body in cool weather. A second method is to use crimped polyester in a fiberfill. The crimp helps keep in warm air. Polyester is an ideal fiber to use for this since it will retain its shape, unlike its cotton and wool counterparts that tend to flatten out over time, significantly reducing their ability to trap warm air. Polyester is often used in pants, shirts, suits, and bed sheets either by itself or as a blend, because of its wrinkle-resistant property and its ability to retain its shape. Since these garments are frequently worn and washed, its stain-resistancy and durability are also desirable. Polyester also has industrial uses as well, such as carpets, filters, synthetic artery replacements, ropes, and films. The pie chart below, taken from Fiber Science by Kathryn L. Hatch, summarizes many of polyesters uses: When the world thinks of plastic films, it thinks of PET. Packaging Applications Polyester film is used in many types of packaging applications ranging from food and drugs to industrial and consumer goods. As plain or metalized, formable, heat-shrinkable and/or coated for barrier, metal adhesion, laminating adhesion, extrusion coating adhesion, printing or sealing, PET film offers excellent characteristics for the packaging market easy machinability, strength, high- and low-temperature resistance, crystal clarity, and printability. The properties that make PET film ideal for packaging applications include: High strength for high speed processes, higher tensions, and higher temperatures Chemical surface treatment during manufacturing or post-manufacturing to enhance characteristics, such as barrier, adhesion, printability, metal adhesion, and release High clarity Strength and resistance to tear Dimensional stability over a very wide range of temperatures and humidity Resistance to attack by moisture and most common solvents Excellent barrier to both oxygen and water vapor to extend shelf- life. Applications Flexible packaging PET film is an excellent laminating substrate for flexible packaging structures, i.e. stand-up pouches, offering excellent flex and puncture resistance. Lidding PET film maintains its strength at both, freezer and oven temperatures, for leak-resistant wraps, lidding, and peelable seals in a wide range of food and nonfood applications. Can laminations Co polyester film is laminated to metal for can applications. Metallized packaging Metallized PET film is used for high barrier, decoration, and embossed holographic applications. Susceptors lightly Metallized PET film is used in microwave Susceptors constructions for browning and cooking food in microwave ovens. Imaging The unique combination of optical, physical, thermal, and chemical properties of polyester film has made it the film of choice for many imaging applications. Some of the major applications include x-ray, photographic, printing, microfilm, photoresist/phototool, overhead projection transparencies, and drafting/reprographics. Currently, these applications account for about 30% of the total PET film consumption. Recent developments in electronic imaging may cause some decline in the use of PET film in some of these applications, but the impact is not expected to be very significant in the near future. The properties that make PET film ideal are its: Brilliantly clear nature Very smooth and glossy surface Ability to: be translucent, opaque, or colored (with suitable additives) have a desired rough or matt finish (with filler additives or coatings) be chemically surface treated during manufacture to enhance adhesion to subsequent coatings Strength and resistance to tear Excellent flatness (freedom from curl and cannot be creased easily) Dimensional stability over a very wide range of temperatures and humidity Resistance to attack by moisture (or most of the common solvents) Non-aging characteristics Shelf life (can be stored for a long time) Applications X-Ray Out of the total PET film usage for imaging applications, more than 30% goes into x-ray base. Typically, a blue-tinted 175 micron PET film is coated with a gelatin-based photosensitive coating and is used as medical x-ray film. Photographic Generally, 100 micron and 175 micron PET film is coated with silver-sensitized layers for photographic applications mainly in professional photographic films and instant photographic applications. Printing PET film is used for printing applications such as in layout, masking, pre-press proofing, plate mounting, and photopolymer plates. PET film is also widely used as a base to print on for displays, signage, posters, labels, etc. Microfilm Originals and duplicates of micro-images of documents, records, drawings, etc., are produced on suitably coated PET film for easy storage, space saving, and retrieval. Photoresist Phototool PET film is used in the plating or etching processes for production of rigid and flexible printed circuits. Overhead Projection Transparencies Coated PET film is used for making overhead projection transparencies in plain paper copying machines. Overhead projection transparencies can be printed by other techniques and written on, as well. Drafting Reprographic PET base film is coated with matt or diazo-sensitized or silver-sensitized lacquers, and is widely used for drafting and in the duplication of engineering drawings. This drawing office film is considered to be more convenient for making subsequent changes in designs, and it can also be used for storage. Industrial Specialty Applications Polyester films thermal, chemical, and dimensional stability coupled with its high tensile strength, durability, flex resistance, and clarity promote broad utilization in Industrial and Specialty applications. Polyester film can be produced in a wide range of thickness (from one to several hundred microns) and visible light transmission from essentially 0% to 99+%. Polyester films ability to be customized through both polymer and surface modification to fit the specific application adds to its versatility and value as a film of choice. Key properties of PET: Dimensional stability, both thermal and moisture Chemical and solvent resistant Strength, tear, and flexual resistance Broad light transmission: optically clear to opaque Surface treatable for adhesion to a variety of materials Broad thickness availability Printable surfaces Few, if any, flexible films available today provide the broad array of performance properties for use in the Industrial and Specialty application market. PET film provides exceptional value in a wide variety of applications. Electrical Applications Polyester film itself is used as electrical insulation. It is also used as a laminate with other substrates, such as non-woven polyester matt (DMD), and organic and inorganic papers, such as aramid paper, silica paper, and mica paper. Polyester film can be used in UL registered electrical systems rated as high as Class F (155ÂÂ °C). Laminates can be used in systems rated as high as Class R (220ÂÂ °C). In motor applications, polyester film is used for ground insulation as slot liners and wedges, as well as phase insulation. The high electrical breakdown voltage, coupled with polyester films high resistance to degradation, makes it ideal for mechanical barriers in wire and cable applications. In transformer and high-voltage distribution equipment applications, polyester film is used to wrap the conductors. Polyester film, with lower extractable content, is effective for use in hermetic applications, such as refrigerator and air conditioner motor/compressor assemblies. PEN polyester film is used where higher temperature performance is required, either in the fabrication stage or in the end-use operating conditions. Thin polyester films (two micron and below) are an integral component of capacitors, where polyesters high dielectric constant and its physical properties enable the component design to be optimized and miniaturized. The physical properties of polyester film (such as dimensional stability, thermal stability at elevated temperatures, and coefficient of friction) combined with its mechanical properties (such as tensile break strength, tensile yield strength, and elongation at break) and its chemical and electrical resistance; make it the preferred material for a wide variety of electrical insulation applications. Magnetics Polyester film is used in a variety of magnetic media, including video, camcorder and audio tapes, and data storage applications such as floppy disks and computer tapes. For all magnetics applications, the base film is further coated with a magnetically receptive coating layer. Polyester film has the excellent dimensional stability required to ensure that the heavy coating layer does not distort and faithfully records the images, sound, or data. The largest volumes of PET film for the magnetic market sector are consumed at present in conventional video and audio tapes. Once again, the dimensional stability of polyester, plus the ability to have a magnetic coating layer adhere to the film, are key to these new applications, which are reaching exceptionally high information densities with corresponding reductions in size and faster data access times. The dynamic nature of this market segment, with new applications growing as others mature, is typical of the innovation that exists in the polyester film industry. Use of polyester in garments Polyester is used in the manufacturing of all kinds of clothes and home furnishings like bedspreads, sheets, pillows, furniture, carpets and even curtains. The disco clothing of the 70s with all its jazz and flash was made of polyester. Hydrophobic nature: High tenacity and good durability makes polyester the choice of fabric for high stress outdoors use. Polyester is also a strong fiber that is hydrophobic in nature. It is thus ideal for clothing to be used in wet and damp environments. The fabric is also coated with a water-resistant finish and further intensifies the hydrophobic nature. Being the most heavily recycled polymer worldwide, it is also used by climbers. Climbing suits, parkas, sleeping bags and other outdoor gear are using the new insulating polyester fiberfill products. One can also do winter windsurfing wearing dry suits lined with polyester fleece. Creating insulation: By creating hollow fibers it is also possible to build insulation into the polyester fiber. Air is trapped inside the fiber, which is then warmed by the heat of the body. This keeps the body warm in cold weather. Another method to build insulation is to use crimped polyester in a fiberfill. The crimp helps keep the warm air in. Polyester is an ideal fabric for this kind of insulation because it retains its shape. Cotton and wool tend to flatten over a period of time and loose the warming effect. Wrinkle resistant: Polyester is also wrinkle resistant and is used very often in everyday clothing like pants, shirts, tops, skirts and suits. Used either by itself or as a blend, it is also stain resistant and hence very popular. Polyester care tips Taking care of polyester clothing is really easy and very time efficient. Polyester clothing can be machine washed and dried. Adding a fabric softener generally helps Dry the fabric at low temperatures to get maximum usage from the clothing. Though polyester does not require much ironing, if