Comparative Study of physical properties of Acrylic-Acrylic and Acrylic Cotton Rib Fabrics

Abstract

This study is comparative based on rib-knitted materials using two different types of yarn, 100 percent acrylic (Acrylic-Acrylic) and acrylic-cotton blend. Rib-knit materials are widely usedboth in the design and in technical pieces since they are stretchy yet stable in their composition.The first aim of the study will be find out the effect of constituent fiber compositions on physical and comfort-related features of these fabrics. Both fabric samples were produced under the same machine conditions and one of them was made by using only acrylic yarn and another one by using special mix of acrylic and cotton fibers (50:50). The properties that were tested included fabric weight (GSM) and thickness, tensile and bursting strength, air permeability, moisture absorbency, elasticity, dimensional behavior like shrinkage and spirality with standard textile testing methods. Results show that the 100 acrylic material was stronger and more elastic but the blend acrylic-cotton was more breathable, less moisture retentive hence soft to the hand. Addition of cotton enhanced aspects of comfort, however impacted slightly on the structural strength of the fabric. In general the present study provides a meaningful contribution to textile industry professionals to make decisions in choosing the right fiber mixture in the rib-knit product as regards structural strength versus comfort.