The Effect of Softeners on Thermal Comfort and Wetting Properties of Bamboo Viscose and Bamboo/Cotton Blended Fabrics

Abstract

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.

Keywords

• bamboo viscose
• cotton
• softener
• washing
• comfort properties
• vertical capillary wetting