Effect of Wet Laundering on Stretching and Air Permeability Properties of Polyester Warp Knitted Fabrics with Different Fabric Weights

摘要

Warp knitting technology combines the twoproperties of dimensional stability and elasticity which are provided from wovenand knitted fabrics separately. These fabrics consist of several threads (warp)which are formed as loops via needles and run through the fabric mainly in avertical direction. These fabrics may be produced on a flat or a circular warpknitting machines. This study aims to investigate the influence of washingcycles (1, 5 and 20) on stretching (%) and air permeability properties of thepolyester warp knitted fabrics of different weight. In order to analyze the effect of washing process on stretchingratios (%) and air permeability of the samples; Fyrma fabric extensometer and SDL Atlas M021A modelAir Permeability Tester devices were used respectively. Additionally, thechanges in fabric weight according to washing cycles of 1, 5 and 20 were alsoevaluated. According to test results; the stretching properties and air permeabilityvalues of the polyester warp knitted fabrics produced in different weightsvaried according to the laundering cycle which emphasized that caring processesshould also be considered during the evaluation of mechanical properties (suchas stretching, air permeability properties) of polyester warp knitted fabrics.