Dimensional Stability of Core Spun Cotton/Spandex Single Jersey Fabrics under Relaxation

Abstract

In this study, dimensional stability of core spun cotton/spandex single jersey structures with high, medium and low tightness factors were experimented under dry, wet and full relaxation conditions. Results were compared with those for similar fabrics knitted from 100 % cotton. Course and wale spacing decreased and course, wale and stitch density increased with progression of relaxation and higher values reported with cotton/spandex structures. Course, wale and stitch density were linearly and positively correlated with loop length —1 or loop length — 2 . Their correlation equations showed minimal intercepts under full relaxation and cotton/spandex exhibited lower intercepts. Dimensional constants (K-values) were predicted under 95 % significance level. Higher dimensional constants were reported with cotton/spandex single jersey structures than 100 % cotton and under full relaxation, cotton/spandex indicated better stable structures under full relaxation. From these experiments, it was confirmed that yarns with elastomeric components increase tightness factors, which have a significant effect on dimensional behaviors, giving better dimensional stability to single jersey fabrics. Yarn linear density was insignificantly changed during treatments.