Quantifying the effects of external factors on the behavior of vertical wicking in a warp stretch woven fabric

Abstract

Wicking ability of textiles is a key indicator in determining the physiological comfort provided by a fabric. The property is shaped by various factors internal and external to the fabric. Herein, the effects of some external factors such as the degree of (fabric) extension, the wetting liquid’s temperature and relative humidity on the vertical wicking behavior of a previously prepared warp stretch woven fabric were investigated. The fabric, which could be reversibly extended up to 60%, was prepared using a nylon/spandex air-covered yarn in the warp and cotton yarn in the weft. The results indicated that these external factors had a great influence on the vertical wicking equilibrium height with the degree of fabric extension having a more pronounced effect compared with the other two factors. Furthermore, extension and relative humidity were negatively related to the height of the vertical wicking, whilst an increase in liquid temperature resulted in an increase in vertical wicking height. The underlying mechanisms associated with these effects were examined using a specially constructed test chamber and tensioning device. The experimental data were also verified using the classical Laughlin-Davies model, and the results demonstrated the proposed wicking model could be used to predict the changes in fabric wicking height. These findings provide a more in-depth understanding of the wicking behavior of stretchable textiles in a comprehensive and objective manner.