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Camouflage in textiles is a pattern orchestrated using different materials and designs, primarily used for armed forces clothing for not to be detected by enemies in variable environments. Wearer comfort is the central perspective while developing textiles; however, no significant literature exists on the comfort assessment of knitted camouflage fabrics. Hence this research experimentally investigates the effect of the fabric structure and the material type on the comfort and mechanical performance properties of the engineered knitted camouflage fabrics. Fabrication of camouflage patterns, i.e. snow, desert, forest camouflage, and plain rib (control sample), was done using different combinations of Polyester, Cotton, and Tencel through jacquard knitting. Characterization of comfort and mechanical properties were performed to predict the influence of input parameters, for finding the best knitting structures and materials and exploring the scientific reason behind behaviours of jacquard knitted camouflage fabrics. Comfort and performance attributes were influenced by changing material and knitting parameters i.e. mean air permeability was 5% higher, and thermal resistance was 21% lower for forest camouflage as compared to desert and snow camouflage due to yarn movements in jacquard patterns. Similarly, the mechanical properties also showed to be affected by changing experimental parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crepe weave fabrics, known for their pebbly or crinkled (rough) surface, are widely used in clothing and bedding applications. Crinkled appearance for crepe weave can be achieved by different interlacement patterns. Generally, six methods/interlacement patterns are commercially used for fabricating crepe woven fabrics. However, there isn't any significant study reporting clothing comfort and mechanical attributes of crepe variants. In this study, crepe fabrics were developed by these six methods i.e., Base sateen (BS), Reversing method (R), Superimpose (SI), Subset (SS), Quarter turn (QT), and Plain base (P) methods. The yarn linear density, fabric density, and other fabric parameters were kept the same to determine the best development method for fabricating crepe woven fabric having higher thermal, sensorial, and mechanical properties. Characterization data revealed that each crepe variation possesses unique structural and physical parameters making performance differences i.e., the BS specimen exhibited the highest air permeability owing to higher porosity, the R specimen had superior Overall moisture management capability (OMMC) index due to compact yarn linkage, and the SS specimen showed best thermal conductivity performance due to its sophisticated crinkled appearance. Among mechanical attributes QT exhibited higher tensile and puncture strengths due to its compact structure with higher interlacements however, sateen interlacement governing yarn slippage made the tear strength higher for the BS specimen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton and polyester fiber blends are commonly used to improve the aesthetic features of finished items. The denim industry's growing need for polyester fiber aids in analyzing the performance of denim fabrics woven from rigid and stretched weft yarn combined with cotton and polyester. This study evaluates the weight, dimensional changes, stiffness, tensile and tearing strength, stretch, and comfort properties of denim fabric woven from cotton and polyester in various blended ratios. Here, Ne 14/1 (42 tex) 100% cotton warp yarn and Ne 18/1 (33 tex) weft yarns, consisting of 100% cotton, 75/25, 50/50, and 25/75 cotton/polyester (CO/PES) blends, as well as 100% polyester, were used to produce 3/1 Z twill denim fabric. The weft yarns were categorized into three groups: rigid, core-spun, and dual-core-spun yarns. Experimental results showed a higher polyester content in weft yarn, and denim fabrics' tensile and tearing strength was improved, whereas fabrics' weight loss, dimensional changes, and stretch properties were reduced. Furthermore, different statistical analyses were conducted to evaluate the type of weft yarn and blending ratio interaction and correlation with fabric properties. Additionally, a regression model was developed with the weft yarn type and blending ratio as independent variables to predict the fabric properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this reported work, bioscoured and bleached cotton fabrics were treated with three different polycarboxylic acids, i.e., malic acid, citric acid, and 1,2,3,4-butane tetracarboxylic acids. The presence of carboxylic acids on the fabric surface as well as the changes in the crystalinity index was determined by Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis. The carboxylic acids treated fabrics were analyzed for their physico-mechanical as well as comfort properties such as tensile strength, elongation, stiffness, air permeability, abrasion resistance, drape, water absorption, and wicking. The results inferred that the polycarboxylic acid-treated cotton showed improved drapability, wrinkle recovery, and strength up to 7% concentration; afterward, it started deteriorating. Weight loss due to abrasion was found to decrease with the addition of crosslinkers. A minor improvement in wicking and wetting properties was also noticed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Firefighters in such serious environments (i.e., hazardous flames and radiant heat, high air temperatures, hot chemicals and liquids) must wear fire protective clothing during fire extinguishing and rescue operations. Many studies in the field of fire protective clothing have been conducted to evaluate the protective, mechanical and comfort performance of fire protective clothing. A comprehensive review of the literature has been undertaken to provide a better understanding of single-layer and multilayer fire protective clothing with protective, mechanical and comfort performance. Factors affecting the durability of protective clothing in the light of their expected retirement age and a number of significant standards for laboratory and manikin testing are discussed. The comfort of wearing clothing is another aspect that needs special consideration when designing a multilayered fire protective suit. A number of emerging technologies have been outlined to address the various challenges of the present day. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the effect of herbal extract, mordant and mordanting process on antibacterial activity, color fastness, and durable and comfort properties of the cotton fabric. In the current research, 100% gray cotton fabric, rind of pomegranate, manjistha, and moduga are used. The selected herbals were aqueous extracted and tested for phytochemical screening to find the presence of active ingredients. The cotton fabric is processed, and herbal extracts were applied with standard methods. The dyed materials were tested for antibacterial activity against S. aureus and E. coli and color fastness, durable, and comfort properties. The rind of pomegranate has high antibacterial property, biomass reduction, and excellent color fastness. All the dyed samples showed useful, sustainable, and comfort features. Furthermore, a garment (salwar cum churidar), designed and developed, was analyzed for wear study by 50 students, and they reported that it has excellent comfort and fit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low production rate than demand and non-sustainability of cotton growth emphasise the world for its substitution. Regenerated cellulosic fibres (RCFs) are the best replacement options in terms of sustainability and performance properties. In this research, we compared the regenerated fibres and cotton fibres blended yarns and single jersey spandex knitted fabrics based on those yarns with 100% cotton yarns and single jersey spandex knitted fabrics and tried to single out the most suitable regenerated/ cotton fibre blend option as the best replacement for cotton fibre in terms of performance and comfort properties along with sustainability. 30/1 Nec yarns were produced by blending cotton with lyocell, modal and Viscose Rayon fibres in (60:40) weight ratios. Single jersey knitted fabrics with 20 denier (20 D) spandex filaments were developed from the said yarns and compared with 100% cotton-based knitted fabrics. Performance properties of yarns such as strength, uniformity and hairiness and fabric properties such as skewness, bursting strength, and pilling along with some comfort properties, e.g. flexural rigidity, air permeability and vertical wicking were also evaluated. RCF-blended yarns and fabrics exhibited improved performance and comfort properties as compared to 100% cotton yarns and fabrics, especially cotton/lyocell-blended yarns and fabrics. The cotton/lyocell (60:40)-blended yarns exhibited 16% higher strength, 36% better yarn performance and 13% less hairiness when compared to 100% cotton. Similarly, the fabrics of the cotton/lyocell (60:40) blend exhibited 32% less spirality, 25% more bursting strength, twice as much airflow and five times higher moisture flow with comparable flexural rigidity as compared to the 100% cotton fabric. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports process optimization studies of silica and zinc oxide-based flame-retardant (FR) coatings on cotton fabric for protective clothing and enhanced flammability properties. The experiments were designed by central composite design (CCD) using response surface methodology (RSM) to assess the synergistic protective effects of silica and zinc oxide FR coating. These prepared sols were coated on cotton fabrics by a simple dip dry cure process. The resulting FR-finished fabrics were characterized by SEM, mechanical properties, flame retardancy, and air permeability. SEM results confirmed the homogenous spreading of particles on cotton fabrics. From TGA results, it was noticed that the incorporation of silica and ZnO in the prepared nano-sols results in improved thermal stability of the FR-finished fabrics. These sol–gel-treated FR cotton fabrics showed excellent comfort properties, which shows their suitability for fire-retardant protective clothing. RSM analysis proved that the predicted values are in good agreement with the experimental values since R2 values for time to ignite, flame spread time, and air permeability were greater than 0.90. The optimized concentration of silica and ZnO in FR-finished fabrics was found to be 0.302% and 0.353%, respectively, which was further confirmed by confirmatory experiments. The optimization analysis successfully optimized the process for synergistic coating of silica and zinc oxide nanoparticles for enhanced flammability properties of FR cotton fabric for protective clothing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study the influence of fabric weave (plain, twill, and panama) and weft type (flax and hemp yarns) on selected mechanical and comfort properties of six fabrics was analyzed. The results showed that tear and abrasion properties were most affected by the weave. The tensile properties of the linen fabrics were not significantly different when weft hemp yarns were used instead of flax. Fabrics with the same weave seemed to be equally resilient to abrasion regardless of the type of weft. By contrast, the hemp weft yarns favorized the physical and comfort properties of the investigated fabrics. For the same weave, the hemp–linen fabrics were slightly lighter and exhibited lower bulk density, significantly larger air permeability, and improved moisture management properties. Although the results of maximum thermal flux (Qmax) suggested a cooler sensation of the linen fabrics with panama and twill, the hemp–linen fabric with a plain weave seemed to be the optimal choice when a cool sensation was desired. Higher thermal conductivity values also suggested slightly better heat transfer properties of the hemp–linen fabrics, and these were significantly influenced by the weave type. The results clearly indicated the advantages of using hemp for improving physical and specific comfort properties of linen fabrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing and engineering clothing for an intended end use necessitates careful selection of fibre, yarn and fabric constructional parameters. Ideal clothing comfort can be achieved by designing clothing, considering high thermal resistance for protection from cold, low resistance to water vapour transfer in mild thermal stress conditions and rapid transfer of vapour and liquid moisture under high thermal stress conditions and rapid transfer of vapour and liquid moisture under hugh thermal stress conditions. Several studies have been reported on the influence of various fibre, yarn and fabric constructional variables on comfort properties of woven and knitted fabrics and the findings show that the fibre, yarn and fabric variables strongly influence the thermo-physiological properties of fabrics and determine the suitability for their particular end use. Several yarn variables, like yarn twist, yarn count, yarn spinning system and yarn types, have been reported to affect the properties of textiles. Change in any of these parameters ultimately changes the yarn structure, which, in turn, depends on the fibre geometry. Distriution of fibres in yarn dictates thermal as well as moistre transfer properties of fabrics. Fabric structure, thickness, cover factor, aerial desnity, bulk density, fabric porosity and finishing treatments affect the thermal and moisture management properties and hence determine the comfort properties of textiles. This paper reports a detailed study on the comfort characteristics of textiles and factors at interplay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aloe vera, Adhathoda vasica, Agele marmelos, Calendula officinalis, and Solanum trilobatum herbal extracts have been used to treat cotton fabric using the pad-dry cure technique. Three distinct herbal treatments have been used on the fabrics, each of which has its unique therapeutic properties which is more suited to older individuals. The study focuses on developing herbal finished fabrics for old age people to prevent them from microbes and UV rays, and to increase the comfort property. Air permeability, wickability, absorbency, thermal conductivity, tensile strength anti-microbial and UV repellence properties have been studied. It is found that the finished fabrics show moderately good UV repellent protection and has antimicrobial creativity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton and polyester fiber blends are commonly used to improve the aesthetic features of finished items. The denim industry’s growing need for polyester fiber aids in analyzing the performance of denim fabrics woven from rigid and stretched weft yarn combined with cotton and polyester. This study evaluates the weight, dimensional changes, stiffness, tensile and tearing strength, stretch, and comfort properties of denim fabric woven from cotton and polyester in various blended ratios. Here, Ne 14/1 (42 tex) 100% cotton warp yarn and Ne 18/1 (33 tex) weft yarns, consisting of 100% cotton, 75/25, 50/50, and 25/75 cotton/polyester (CO/PES) blends, as well as 100% polyester, were used to produce 3/1 Z twill denim fabric. The weft yarns were categorized into three groups: rigid, core-spun, and dual-core-spun yarns. Experimental results showed a higher polyester content in weft yarn, and denim fabrics’ tensile and tearing strength was improved, whereas fabrics’ weight loss, dimensional changes, and stretch properties were reduced. Furthermore, different statistical analyses were conducted to evaluate the type of weft yarn and blending ratio interaction and correlation with fabric properties. Additionally, a regression model was developed with the weft yarn type and blending ratio as independent variables to predict the fabric properties.

A shoe insole material was created by combining eco-friendly natural fibers with alginate hydrogel, which is known for its biocompatibility. The sol–gel technique was used to create a composite by cross-linking the Bamboo/hemp and Tencel/Flax nonwoven, produced by the needle-punching method, with alginate solution using CaCl2 as a crosslinking agent. The composite was then dried at 30 °C for 24 h. To determine the effects of different alginate concentrations and nonwoven GSM (g/m2) on the composite's properties, three concentrations (0.5%, 0.75%, and 1%) and three GSM values (60 gm−2, 120 gm−2 and 180 gm−2) were used. The composite's properties were evaluated using SEM, FTIR, tensile strength, elongation, water absorbency, air permeability, overall moisture management, and anti-bacterial properties. The SEM and FTIR analyses have confirmed the successful synthesis of a composite material comprising alginate hydrogel reinforced with nonwoven fabric. Compared to Tencel/flax-reinforced hydrogel composites (117.6 N), the bamboo/hemp-reinforced hydrogel composites exhibited superior tensile strength (186.2 N) and water absorption properties. On the other hand, the Tencel/flax hydrogel composites (402 mm/sec) demonstrated better air permeability than the bamboo/hemp-reinforced hydrogel composite (321 mm/sec). In addition, both composites displayed antibacterial properties, making insoles made from these materials effective in controlling odors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the development of fabric materials using several blends of inherently fire-resistant (FR) fibers and various knitted structures. The samples are evaluated with respect to their performance and comfort-related properties. Inherently fire-resistant fibers, e.g., Nomex, Protex, carbon and FR viscose, were used to develop different structures of knitted fabrics. Cross-miss, cross-relief, and vertical tubular structures were knitted by using optimum fiber blend proportions and combinations of stitches. Several important aspects of the fabric samples were investigated, e.g., their physical, mechanical and serviceability performance. Thermo-physiological and tactile/touch-related comfort properties were evaluated in addition to flame resistance performance. An analysis of mechanical performance indicated that the knitted structure has a significant influence on the tensile strength, bursting strength and pilling resistance. The cross-relief structure proved to be the strongest followed by the cross-miss and vertical tubular structures. The FR station suits made from 70:30 Protex/Nomex exhibited the best combination of tensile and bursting strength; therefore, this material is recommended for making a stable and durable station suit. Interestingly, it was also concluded from the experimental study that knitted samples with a cross-relief structure exhibit the best fire-resistance performance. Fiber blends of 70:30 Protex/Nomex and 70:30 Nomex/carbon were found to be optimum in terms of overall performance. The best flame resistance was achieved with Nomex:carbon fiber blends. These results were confirmed with vertical flammability tests, TGA, DTGA and cone calorimetry analysis. The optimization of blend composition as well as knitting structure/architecture is a crucial finding toward designing the best FR station suit in terms of mechanical, dimensional, thermal, thermo-physiological and flame resistance performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for fibers with improved technical performance and user comfort has led to the development of sustainable man-made cellulosic fibers as an alternative to natural fibers. This study focuses on investigating the structural, physical, mechanical, and moisture-related comfort properties of single jersey fabrics containing different types of lyocell fibers. Although lyocell fibers have been produced using similar processes, our results showed that they displayed some differences in their properties which were reflected in their yarn and fabric performances. Accordingly, Type B lyocell fiber stands out in terms of mechanical and comfort properties. Previous studies mainly focused on the specific types of lyocell fibers, and this research provides a comparative analysis of the different types. The findings contribute to understanding the performance characteristics of various lyocell fiber types and can assist in informed material selection for textile applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study aims to evaluate and categorize bamboo fabric's functional and comfort properties. The study includes the selection of 100% bamboo fabrics of 127 g/m2 and 112 g/m2 and cotton fabrics of 104 g/m2. The cotton fabric was chemically processed and then treated with ZnO (1%, 2%, and 3%) using a padding machine. The antibacterial action of bamboo and ZnO-coated cotton samples was assessed and analysed against E. coli and S. aureus. The moisture properties of the chosen samples were tested. Further, the chosen samples are tested for properties like bending, drapeability, specific handle force, and air permeability. It was found that bamboo samples exhibit extensive microbial activity, and the same was proven through the 3% ZnO treatment of cotton samples. Both cotton and bamboo samples demonstrated enhanced moisture management properties. The comfort properties of bamboo samples are observed to be exceptional compared to cotton samples, making them more suitable for functions in situ than cotton.

Recently, the production of organic fibres and the recycling of textile waste have become essential global issues due to the decrease in non-renewable resources and the increase in disposal costs. The aim of this work was to identify changes in the properties of single jersey knitwear produced from conventional and sustainable fibres after 20 washes. The samples were knitted from different conventional and sustainable yarns. The selected conventional fibres were 100% cotton, 50% cotton-50% polyester and 100% polyester, while the sustainable fibres were 100% better cotton, 100% recycled polyester, and 50% organic cotton-50% recycled polyester. Measurements were taken before and after 20 washes according to the relevant standards. It was found that fabric produced from 100% recycled polyester is suitable for active sportswear due to its high air permeability, and resistance to heat and water vapor. In addition, the fabric with 50% organic cotton-50% recycled polyester fibres was more suitable for cold environmental conditions due to its lowest water vapor resistance, good air permeability and high thermal resistance.

The article focuses on assessing the changes in the properties of single jersey knitwear made from conventional and sustainable cotton and polyester fibers after 20 washes. Topics discussed include the suitability of 100 percent recycled polyester fabric for active sportswear due to its high air permeability, heat resistance, and water vapor resistance, as well as the suitability of fabric with 50 percent organic cotton-50 percent recycled polyester fibers for cold environments.

The antimicrobial functionalization of textile structures with copper and its compounds carried out by various methods increased significantly during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. So far, in order to obtain antiviral properties the magnetron technique using copper was applied mainly to flat textile structures; polypropylene, polyester and cotton nonwovens, and polyester and cotton woven fabrics. In this study, magnetron sputtering with copper was applied to modify the spatial viscose needle-punched nonwoven fabric. We found that the spatial nonwoven structure made of regenerated cellulose fibers and one-side sputtered with copper has strong antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Klebsiella pneumoniae. In the case of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) McKrae strain, vaccinia virus (VACV) WR strain, influenza A virus H1N1 (IFV) and mouse coronavirus (MHV) JHV strain used in the study, Cu modified nonwoven fabric has only weak activity against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). It also has no significant toxicity compared to the control medium and pristine nonwoven fabric. The modified nonwoven fabric is characterized also by hydrophobic properties, high electrical conductivity, good air and water vapor permeability, and meets the requirements of breathing resistance for all protection classes (FFP1, FFP2 and FFP3) specified in the EN 149-2001 standard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecological washing treatments are being widely applied for textile finishing. However, these treatments may cause changes in the mechanical and surface properties of textile materials, thus influence the tactile properties of fabrics. These sensitive low-stress mechanical properties will affect the comfort of the human body. In this work, the changes in comfort properties of dyed cotton fabrics, after ecological new bleach and enzymatic washing treatments, are systematically investigated using a tensile testing machine - the Kawabata Evaluation System for Fabrics (KES-FB) - and the air permeability tester. The results show that mechanical and fabric hand properties are differently affected by the different treatments. Finished cotton samples were found suppler and rougher than the untreated fabric due to the mechanical friction during the finishing cycle, including fabric-to-fabric and fabric-to-machine friction. As a result of our finishing treatment, tensile strength, bending properties, air permeability and thermal conductivity are decreased, however, the compressibility (EMC) tends to increase after the various finishing treatments. Moreover, the best bending properties, which reflect the flexibly of the fabric, are obtained for the new bleached sample. The possible origins for the changes mentioned above - caused by the different treatments- are evaluated and discussed.

This study investigates the knitted fabrics’ air permeability and water vapor resistance as complex phenomena of the interaction between the fiber nature, fabric structural characteristics and, different wet processes. Bleaching and dyeing together with the content of elastane are the main factors determining fabric structural characteristics. 100% cotton fabrics have a higher intensity of warm/cool feeling since they have higher air permeability than elastane containing fabrics. The air permeability and water vapor resistance of elastane containing fabrics decreased after the wet processes, whereby the bleached knitted fabrics showed higher air permeability and lower water vapor resistance than dyed. Decreased air permeability and increased water vapor resistance of softened elastane containing fabrics are governed by the cationic softener pick-up mechanism. Namely, the cationic softener is deposited on the yarns’ surfaces; its hydrophobic carbon ends repel from each other. This acts as a barrier for air which contributes to an increase in the fabric water vapor resistance. The softened dyed knitted fabrics have lower air permeability and slightly higher water vapor resistance than softened bleached fabrics which may be attributed to the interaction between reactive dyestuff and cationic softener. The comfort properties quality of finished knitted fabrics decreased with elastane incorporation and with softening.

The present work investigates the effect of weave structure on physico-comfort properties of eri silk–modal union fabrics. Three different weaves viz. twill, herringbone, and diamond were prepared in a fly shuttle loom by using the three different ratios of eri silk/modal blended yarns. In addition to the physico-mechanical properties, the comfort and functional properties of the fabric such as thermal insulation, Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), and gloss values were evaluated using standard protocols. The results inferred that irrespective of the blend proportion, the mechanical properties of the diamond weave were found to be superior to other weaves. With the increase in modal proportion, the load-bearing capacity of fabrics got increased. It is also observed that the weave structure plays a vital role in determining the functional properties of the union fabric. The tactile, thermal, comfort, and hand values of eri/modal union fabrics showed its suitability for women’s lightweight spring garments.

The comfort properties of a textile cannot be dissociated from its function. Considering this premise, we evaluated the physical and mechanical performance of a previously developed cosmeto-textile composed of cotton/elastane, functionalized with bovine serum albumin (BSA) and BSA/silk fibroin (BSA/SF) nanoemulsions, encapsulating α-tocopherol (vitamin E). The surface functionalization of cotton fabrics with the nanoemulsions was confirmed by fabric staining with Coomassie Brilliant Blue R250 and by FTIR-ATR. The comfort properties including wetting, stiffness, stretching, draping ability, electrical resistance, and air and vapor permeability were evaluated. The results revealed that the functionalization of cotton fabrics with the developed protein-based nanoemulsions did not disturb the comfort properties of the textile material nor its functionality. This gives a good indication of the potential of the developed breathable cosmeto-textile to be used in contact with the human body with acceptable performance.

This study investigated the derivatives of interlock knitted structures by changing stitch type, location, and their percentage (%) on different performance properties. In the current study, 11 different interlock knit structures were developed by using multiple combinations of knit, tuck, and miss stitches and different types of testing, i.e., physical, mechanical, thermo-physiological comfort, tactile comfort, and dimensional properties, were performed and investigated. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to determine the statistical significance of structure on the properties. Based on the results, it was concluded that stitch type, percentage, and location have a prominent influence on the abovementioned properties of knit fabrics, which is also elaborated by interaction plots. The present research used a multi-response optimization technique, i.e., principal component analysis (PCA), to identify the best structure for industrial applications like uniforms, based on the optimization of abovementioned properties. Based on the results, it was suggested that a sample with an interlock cross relief structure was found to be the best in all aspects among all samples, followed by interlock pique and double tuck, which were ranked as 2nd and 3rd, respectively. This paper highlights the possible application of different interlock knitted structures according to end use for manufacturers.

The market for bedding products in Thailand now offers a wide range of physical attributes (fiber types, structures, fabric densities, thicknesses, and weights) that produce a variety of tactile sensations and comfort qualities. This study investigated the comfort properties of bedding fabrics in Thailand. Twenty-one bedding fabric samples were collected and measured for their mechanical and surface properties based on the Kawabata evaluation system for fabric (KES-F) as well as the horizontal wicking test and abrasion resistance, air permeability, wrinkle recovery, and thermal resistance (Qmax). The primary hand value (HV) and total hand value (THV) were calculated using the Kawabata hand evaluation equation KN-201-LDY describing women's thin dress fabric, using 5 different properties from the KES-F (tensile, shear, bending, compression, and surface friction). The principle component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis of the physical properties of fabric samples showed that the samples could be placed in 4 groups. The first group was mostly cotton woven samples. The second group consisted of 2 samples that were both knitted, while the third group was mostly mixed (M) fabric samples. The last group contained cotton and M cotton samples. The first cluster was considered to provide the best hand-feel characteristics of all 4 clusters, while the second cluster was considered the least desirable based on hand-feel. The findings of this study should assist the bedding textile sector in developing new products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, to develop practical fire‐protective clothing with both good flame retardancy and comfort properties, polyimide (PI)/wool blended woven fabrics were carefully made by mixing PI and wool fibers with different mass ratios (100/0, 80/20, 50/50, and 0/100) in the carding process. Thermogravimetric analysis in both air and argon conditions indicated that wool fibers had much lower thermal stability than PI. With more PI fibers added, better thermal stability can be observed. When the mixing ratio of PI/wool was 80/20, the LOI value had a rapid increase from 23% to 31%. Meanwhile, under this ratio, the peak value of the heat release rate surprisingly reduced to a much lower degree (from 425 to 306 W/g), indicating the heat generated is dispersed along the whole burning process. Through comprehensive analysis, it is deduced that the thin molten layer of wool and PI fibers formed a confined space for the heat and volatiles, leading to lower heat release rate and higher non‐flammable gas release of the 80/20 PI/wool sample. Finally, the moisture permeability and fabric style tests demonstrated better comfort properties of the PI/wool blended fabrics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports process optimization studies of silica and zinc oxide-based flame-retardant (FR) coatings on cotton fabric for protective clothing and enhanced flammability properties. The experiments were designed by central composite design (CCD) using response surface methodology (RSM) to assess the synergistic protective effects of silica and zinc oxide FR coating. These prepared sols were coated on cotton fabrics by a simple dip dry cure process. The resulting FR-finished fabrics were characterized by SEM, mechanical properties, flame retardancy, and air permeability. SEM results confirmed the homogenous spreading of particles on cotton fabrics. From TGA results, it was noticed that the incorporation of silica and ZnO in the prepared nano-sols results in improved thermal stability of the FR-finished fabrics. These sol–gel-treated FR cotton fabrics showed excellent comfort properties, which shows their suitability for fire-retardant protective clothing. RSM analysis proved that the predicted values are in good agreement with the experimental values since R2 values for time to ignite, flame spread time, and air permeability were greater than 0.90. The optimized concentration of silica and ZnO in FR-finished fabrics was found to be 0.302% and 0.353%, respectively, which was further confirmed by confirmatory experiments. The optimization analysis successfully optimized the process for synergistic coating of silica and zinc oxide nanoparticles for enhanced flammability properties of FR cotton fabric for protective clothing.

In this paper, we report the comparison of physical properties of 19.68 Tex (30 Nec)/1 Siro spun yarns and fabrics manufactured from 100% cotton, virgin polyester, and recycled polyester in 50:50 blend ratio with cotton fibers. Tensile analysis revealed that recycled polyester-cotton siro spun yarns exhibited comparable tensile strength to the virgin polyester-cotton yarns. The evenness and structural uniformity of the recycled polyester-cotton yarn was also equivalent to the polyester-cotton siro spun yarns. Plain weave (1/1) fabrics were manufactured from the obtained yarns. Recycled polyester-cotton blended fabrics depicted comparable tensile, tear, and ball bursting strength to the virgin polyester-cotton blended fabrics, and exhibited better wettability, air permeability, and were less prone to pilling when compared with the polyester-cotton blended fabrics. Recycled polyester-cotton fabrics also exhibited good drape properties and less shear stiffness in the Kawabata analysis when compared to their counterparts. Based on the results obtained, it may be safely concluded that the recycled polyester fibers can be used as an alternative to virgin polyester fibers in siro spun medium-count yarns and consequent fabrics.

Copyright of Dokuz Eylul University Muhendislik Faculty of Engineering Journal of Science & Engineering / Dokuz Eylül Üniversitesi Mühendislik Fakültesi Fen ve Mühendislik Dergisi is the property of Dokuz Eylul Universitesi Muhendislik Fakultesi Fen ve Muhendislik Dergisi and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Nowadays, there is a great interest on thermal comfort properties of textile products. In addition to fiber properties and fabric structure, the finishing applications influencing thermophysiological comfort and wetting properties are searched to contribute better characteristics to the garments. In this study, it was purposed to investigate the effect of various softeners on thermal comfort and wetting properties of the 100% bamboo viscose and bamboo/cotton blended knitted fabrics. The different softeners were applied to the fabrics by padding method. Furthermore, the washing durability of the softeners after 10 and 20 washing cycles was evaluated. Thermal comfort, water vapor permeability, and vertical capillary wetting measurements of the fabrics were performed. The results were evaluated statistically. According to the results, it was found that thermal resistance values of softened bamboo viscose and bamboo/cotton blended fabrics were lower than those of untreated and unwashed fabrics. Softening treatments increased thermal absorptivity values and supplied a cooler feeling. Moreover, the vertical capillary wetting values of the softened fabrics were lower than those of untreated fabrics.

In this work, 10 yarn samples were prepared through ring spinning with different ratios of Tencel, cotton, polyester, and recycled polyester fibers. These yarns were converted into knitted fabrics by a sample knitting machine, and their mechanical and comfort properties were investigated. The mechanical tests were comprised of bursting strength and pilling tests, whereas tests of comfort properties included air permeability, water vapor permeability, and thermal resistance. It is found that the fibers of Tencel/cotton and virgin polyester/recycled polyester with blended ratios of 40/20 and 20/20, respectively, give better mechanical and comfort properties than other blended ratios and the “chief value cotton” (CVC) (60:40) blend. CVC (60:40) is a conventional blend comprising 60% cotton and 40% virgin polyester that is being used for summer clothing. Therefore, by analyzing statistically and comparing different blends, it is established that Tencel/cotton and virgin polyester/recycled polyester with blended ratios of 40/20 and 20/20, respectively, not only offer better mechanical and comfort properties, but the consumption of unsustainable virgin polyester and cotton fibers can also be decreased by 60%.

Copyright of Journal of Natural Fibers is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Compared to other textiles, socks are made at the lowest cost and have the highest consumption rate, making them one of the least-lasting fabric goods in the clothing industry. Socks are available in a wide range of fibers blends, that is, cotton, wool, nylon, acrylic, polyester, olefin, spandex, etc. As an element of footwear, socks act in tandem with the foot and shoe, influencing the temperature and moisture levels of the feet. The comfort of clothing next to the skin in terms of temperature and moisture is gaining more and more attention. Pilling is a serious issue with wool items, and less pilling is required since it negatively impacts the esthetic, comfort, and longevity of the fabric. This research has investigated socks pilling tendency and thermo-physiological comfort properties, that is, air permeability and thermal resistance made by wool/polypropylene blend yarn. Three different combinations of wool/polypropylene yarns on the main and platting side of the socks were used at two different tightness levels. Polyurethane finish has been applied to check the socks' behavior after the finish application. Statistical analysis showed that finished samples knitted with wool/polypropylene as a main yarn offer the best results against the pilling test while sample code ANL, an unfinished sample, offers the best results regarding air permeability, thermal resistance, and overall moisture management capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Natural Fibers is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Natural Fibers is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Natural Fibers is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Natural Fibers is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Natural Fibers is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Ecological washing treatments are being widely applied for textile finishing. However, these treatments may cause changes in the mechanical and surface properties of textile materials, thus influence the tactile properties of fabrics. These sensitive low-stress mechanical properties will affect the comfort of the human body. In this work, the changes in comfort properties of dyed cotton fabrics, after ecological new bleach and enzymatic washing treatments, are systematically investigated using a tensile testing machine - the Kawabata Evaluation System for Fabrics (KES-FB) - and the air permeability tester. The results show that mechanical and fabric hand properties are differently affected by the different treatments. Finished cotton samples were found suppler and rougher than the untreated fabric due to the mechanical friction during the finishing cycle, including fabric-to-fabric and fabric-to-machine friction. As a result of our finishing treatment, tensile strength, bending properties, air permeability and thermal conductivity are decreased, however, the compressibility (EMC) tends to increase after the various finishing treatments. Moreover, the best bending properties, which reflect the flexibly of the fabric, are obtained for the new bleached sample. The possible origins for the changes mentioned above - caused by the different treatments- are evaluated and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, various blended fabrics of modacrylic fibre with flame retardant (FR) viscose, and Nylon 66 have been manufactured and studied for their thermal, mechanical and comfort properties for workers of oil & gas industry. The ring spinning system is used to manufacture three sets of yarns. In the first set, three yarns are produced using only modacrylic, only FR viscose, and only Nylon 66 fibres. The second set of yarns is made using blends of FR viscose and modacrylic. These fibres are blended in three different ratios of 30:70, 50:50 and 70:30 for making yarns. The third set is made out of tertiary blends of FR viscose, nylon 66 and modacrylic. These are blended in two different ratios of 30:20:50 and 50:20:30 respectively. Fabric samples have been produced out of these yarns and evaluated for their flame, thermal and mechanical properties after 5 and 50 washes. The radiant heat transfer index and convective heat transfer index of blends of modacrylic fibre are found in the range 12 - 13.5 s and 5.0 - 5.7 s respectively. Multivariate test analysis has been applied to find out the effect of different fibre blends on various flame and thermal properties. The study shows that flame and thermal resistant properties are influenced by fibre blending ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the reported study, the impact of blending on thermal, physical, esthetic and comfort properties of eri silk–acrylic union fabric with different weave structures was studied. The eri silk, acrylic and their blended yarns were prepared in the silk spinning system. Twill, herringbone and diamond woven fabrics were developed using the blended yarn in handloom. The fabric samples were evaluated for physical, comfort properties as well as subjective evaluation. It was observed that, in twill weave, air permeability and thermal conductivity of the eri silk–acrylic blended union fabrics were improved with the increase in eri silk fiber percentage, whereas the thermal insulation values increase with the increase in acrylic percentage, in the case of diamond fabrics. Respondent opined that all the woven samples have good appearance, soft in hand and smooth in texture. The costs of blended yarn and the cost of union fabrics of different proportions were getting reduced in comparison to that of eri silk yarns and fabrics. The study reveals that the thermal and comfort properties of twill structured eri silk union fabric were found to be suitable for winter fashion.

Textile structures with various bioactive and functional properties are used in many areas of medicine, special clothing, interior textiles, technical goods, etc. We investigated the effect of two different textile woven structures made of 90% polyester with 10% polyamide (PET) and 100% cotton (CO) modified by magnetron sputtering with copper (Cu) on bioactive properties against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and four viruses and also on the some comfort parameters. PET/Cu and CO/Cu fabrics have strong antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumonia. CO/Cu fabric has good antiviral activity in relation to vaccinia virus (VACV), herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and influenza A virus H1N1 (IFV), while its antiviral activity against mouse coronavirus (MHV) is weak. PET/Cu fabric showed weak antiviral activity against HSV-1 and MHV. Both modified fabrics showed no significant toxicity in comparison to the control medium and pristine fabrics. After Cu sputtering, fabric surfaces became hydrophobic and the value of the surface free energy was over four times lower than for pristine fabrics. The modification improved thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity, facilitated water vapour transport, and air permeability did not decrease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A firefighter in the wildland fields spends an average of 8 to 16 h during which he encounters enormous physical effort and very demanding outdoor conditions of high temperatures. Research shows that the most common injuries are due to the occurrence of heat stress, and not due to lack of protection against burns. Therefore, for this very specific field of firefighting, it is necessary to provide clothing that will, in addition to adequate flame protection, provide good comfort properties such as lightweight suits, good porosity and breathability, so that gaseous sweat and heat generated by body heating can be released into the environment. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of structural parameters of multi-weft woven fabrics on two mutually contradictory properties—breathability and thermal protection. When designing fabrics, the goal was to produce a structure with a high proportion of volume pores, which, regardless of the increased volume of the fabric, insure the fabric mass would be acceptably small. Volume pores in the fabric have two roles—as a heat insulator and as an inhibitor of the breathability of the material. The analysis of the obtained results showed that the thickness and mass of the fabric have a greater influence on the water vapor resistance, while the heat transmission property is more affected by the thickness, porosity and fiber content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prediction of functional and performance properties of textiles before the actual commencement of fabric production and testing can serve as an effective tool in characterization and designing of fabrics for any desired application. The thermophysiological properties of textile materials can be predicted by a variety of models, such as statistical, mechanistic and artificial neural network models. Statistical models can give good prediction performance, provided a large data set is presented to make the model and relationship exists between input parameters and response variables. The effect of input parameters on thermo-physiological properties of fabrics cannot be studied in isolation, owing to interdependence and nonlinear relationship of parameters with each other. Statistical models fail to present satisfactory analysis of relationship in such cases. Mechanistic models are useful tools in understanding the fundamentals and physics involved in heat, moisture and liquid transfer through textiles. However, the assumptions considered in the simplification of mechanistic models may not be valid in all conditions and can lead to high prediction errors in real conditions, owing to inherent variability in the textile structures. Moreover the model becomes more complicated as the number of parameters and assumptions increase, thereby limiting the model's accuracy of prediction. Artificial neural network is a powerful and potent modelling tool which can understand any complex relationship between input and response variables and predicts the thermo-physiological properties of fabrics by considering all fabric parameters at a time. The network exhibits the ability of simulating the functioning of a biological neuron and, in turn, each network component poses analogy to the actual constituents or operations of a biological neuron. In this study, an attempt has been made to highlight the significance of artificial neural network in prediction of comfort properties of textiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the environmental condition, a shoe manufactured with different suitable materials has to provide optimum comfort and strength features by using high-quality leather parts. The aim of the study is to evaluate the quality of the shoe upper leather in Bangladesh. Ten different types of shoe leather, made from cow hides and goat skins, were collected from different footwear and leather industries in Bangladesh. The research was carried out by using approved methods of analysis as per the International Union of the Society of Leather Technologists and Chemists’ official methods for physical and chemical analysis. Physical and chemical properties, which were studied three times for each of the samples, were tensile strength, percentage of elongation, tearing strength, grain crack resistance, water vapor permeability, flexing endurance, scuff resistance, perspiration fastness, color rub fastness, bond strength of the finish film, the pH, moisture content, chromic oxide content and fat content, respectively. From the study, it has been revealed that samples 02 and 08 were completely unacceptable, samples 04, 05 and 07 were moderately acceptable, and the remaining samples, 01, 03, 06, 09 and 10, were strongly acceptable on the basis of the ISO standard for shoe leather. To get the better quality, the above mentioned tests should be improved, thus the demand and the value of shoe leather, as well as footwear, will be increased and the rejection rate will be decreased gradually.

The productivity, quality and comfort aspects of Siro spun wool-cotton blended Khadi fabrics are reported in this experimental research. The technology of Siro spun yarn is also successfully introduced in New Modal (NM) Charkha for producing woolen Khadi Siro yarn. This system produces suitable two strands yarn of wool with higher productivity than conventional NM charkha. The yarns of Australian Merino (AM) and JK crossbred (JKC) wool mixes in different proportions using modified Siro Charkha were prepared. The fabrics were woven using AM-JKC mixed Siro spun yarn as a weft and wool-cotton blended spun yarn as a warp by using the Handloom weaving machine. The physical, low-stress mechanical and comfort properties of wool-cotton Siro fabrics were studied. Siro spun yarn of AM: JKC (75:25) was bulkier, more even with lower imperfections and hairiness. The tenacity and elongation of Siro spun yarns have an increasing trend with the increasing proportion of Australian Merino wool in the wool-mix. The thickness before and after the steam press of fabrics has significant difference. The blending of cotton with wool in the fabric significantly reduced the relaxation shrinkage in the warp direction, which in turn produced the more dimensionally stable fabric. The comfort in terms of thermal and air-permeability properties significantly affected with fibre composition in warp and weft yarns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]