EFFECT OF LAUNDERING ON THE DIMENSIONAL STABILITY OF ELASTIC WARP-KNITTED FABRICS

Abstract

Abstract. During using the clothing and textile materials are subject to multiple launderings and other
moisture-heat treatments, such as steaming during ironing aff ected the structure and dimensions
stability of the textile material. Elastic warp knitted fabrics are widely used for medical and preventive
products, where dimensional characteristics are one of the components of the therapeutic eff ect. In addition, such goods are usually used daily and worn close to the skin, and in this case, they need to meet hygienic requirements.
The purpose of the research is to study the dimensional changes of elastic warp-knitted fabrics for
medical and preventive products during repeated processing by the "washing-drying" cycle and to
establish the eff ect of the raw material composition and fabric`s structure on the material's dimensional
stability.
Methodology. Standard methods were used at all study stages: sample preparation, laundering, drying,
dimensions measurement, and determination of their changes.
Results. Elastic warp knitted fabrics are more stable in coursewise direction. The type and linear
density of weft in-laying yarns, as well as their laying repeat, are determining indicators of fabric`s
dimensional stability. The threading repeat of the guide bar with elastomeric yarn does not aff ect the
studied parameters. The elastic warp knitted fabric with polyester threads as weft and their laying on
the whole width of the fabric is the most stable.
The scientifi c novelty of the work is in the analysis of dimensions changes of elastic warp-knitted
fabrics within 50 "washing - drying" cycles and establishing their dependence on the raw material
and fabric structure.
The practical value of the research. The obtained results are the basis for improving the technological
process for elastic warp-knitted fabric manufacturing, especially when using natural raw materials:
cotton or linen yarn. As well as it is useful when designing structures with a transverse weft inserted
according to a certain repeat. especially if there is no contact between weft yarns in certain courses.