In daily life, we often come into contact with various fabrics, among which polyester and nylon, as two common synthetic fibers, are highly favored due to their excellent physical properties and wide application fields. However, for ordinary consumers, accurately distinguishing between these two fabrics is a significant challenge. From the appearance, the fiber morphology of polyester and nylon is almost identical under the microscope, which undoubtedly increases the difficulty of identification. So, is there any simple and effective way to help us distinguish them? The answer is yes, that is to distinguish through combustion tests.

Firstly, let's take a look at polyester. Polyester, also known as polyester fiber, is a synthetic fiber obtained by spinning polyester, which is condensed from diols and diacids. When we use a lighter to burn polyester fabric, we can observe some obvious features. When polyester burns, it emits a large amount of black smoke, which is very dark in color, almost close to black. At the same time, a slightly sweet odor is also produced during the combustion process, which, although not too strong, is enough to make people perceive it. These characteristics are unique manifestations of polyester during combustion and are also important criteria for identifying polyester.

Next, let's take a look at nylon. Nylon, also known as nylon, is a synthetic fiber made by polymerizing caprolactam. Unlike polyester, nylon exhibits completely different characteristics during combustion. When we use a lighter to burn nylon fabric, we can observe that the flame is relatively small, and there is almost no smoke or only a little white smoke produced during the burning process. More importantly, when nylon burns, it emits a very pungent odor that makes people feel uncomfortable and even unbearable. This unique odor and burning phenomenon are also the key to identifying nylon.

By comparing the different performances of polyester and nylon during combustion, we can find that although these two fibers may appear similar in appearance, there are significant differences in combustion characteristics. Therefore, when we need to distinguish between polyester and nylon, we only need to conduct a simple combustion test, observe the characteristics of smoke color, firelight, and odor during the combustion process, and easily distinguish them.

Of course, in addition to the combustion test, we can further distinguish between polyester and nylon by other methods such as differences in hand feel, glossiness, wear resistance, and so on. However, in comparison, combustion testing is undoubtedly a more intuitive, simple, and effective method. Therefore, in daily life, when we encounter situations where we need to distinguish between polyester and nylon, we may try this method and believe it will bring you unexpected surprises.