Relation of Fiber and Fabric Properties in Durable-Press Cottons 1

Abstract

A cotton twill fabric was subjected to a durable-press treatment with dihydroxy dimethylol ethylene urea (Permafresh-183) of increasing severity. The mechanical properties of the fabrics and of single fibers withdrawn from the treated fabrics were evaluated and the relationships between fiber and fabric properties were analyzed. Statistically significant correlations between such important fabric properties as abrasion resistance, tear strength, tensile strength, and energy-absorbing capacity, on the one hand, and fiber mechanical properties, on the other, show conclusively that chemical treatments which alter fiber structure and properties are responsible for the modified fabric behavior. At the same time, the importance of fiber geometric arrangements in spun yarn and fabric structures, in terms of fabric properties, are pointed out. Thus, while this work has shown the functional relationships between fiber mechanical properties and fabric characteristics, careful attention must be given to fiber-fiber interactions, particularly in relation to chemical modification treatments.