Effect of Wash Cycles and Polyester Fiber Blend Ratios on Wicking Behavior of Blended Knit Fabrics

Abstract

Wicking is a crucial property for comfort in human beings. The body continuously produces energy through metabolic processes and maintains comfort by dissipating this energy into the environment. Two important aspects of maintaining comfort are the evaporation of sweat and the avoidance of overheating, particularly in warm and uncomfortable environments. This research investigates the wicking properties of blended knit fabrics made of different proportions of cotton, polyester, and elastane fibers. It focuses on how a higher percentage of polyester influences wicking performance. Additionally, the impact of multiple washing cycles on wicking properties was analyzed. The original state of the fabrics was assessed after several wash cycles, including after one wash, three washes, and ten washes. Ten weft-knitted blended fabrics were prepared for the study. The findings revealed differences in wicking performance between the fabrics in their original state after one wash and after ten washes. Notably, the wicking performance after ten wash cycles was nearly identical to that after three wash cycles. It helps determine whether multiple wash cycles are necessary in different scenarios.