The performance of high-value-added synthetic-fiber products is greatly affected, not only by the properties of the polymer itself, but also by the fiber form and the structure of yarns and fabrics made from the fiber, which can be controlled for particular uses. This paper deals primarily with polyester-fiber fabrics in general, from the viewpoint of the classification of the shape of fibers, which is characterized by the cross-section and surface configuration, and secondly with products characterized by the mutual interactions between the fiber form and the structure of fiber assemblies, such as silk-like fabric, spunize fabric, sweat-absorption polyester-fiber fabric, brilliant-color-developing polyester-fiber fabric, pile fabric, wiping cloth, tickproof quilt covers, and so forth. Finally, some products developed in imitation of the structure and functions of natural fibers are described to indicate a number of directions yet to be taken by synthetic-fiber fabrics. For the development of new high-value-added products, it is necessary to determine the target through a scientific approach, to design fiber forms and the fiber-assembly structure depending on their intended use, and to realize them in a practical way.
