Permeability and Wicking Properties of Modal and Lyocell Woven Fabrics Used for Clothing

Abstract

In this study, air permeability, water vapor permeability and wicking properties of certain woven fabrics, which are important comfort properties for clothes and garments, have been investigated. The effects of raw material (modal, Lyocell), weave pattern (plain, 2/2 twill, 1/3 twill, 2/2 matt) and weft yarn density (18, 22, 26) on these properties have been analysed graphically and statistically. The comfort characteristics of fabrics (permeability and wicking properties) are closely associated with the changes in their structural parameters: 2/2 matt and plain woven fabrics, where porosities are high, have better permeability and wicking properties. Increasing weft yarn density lead to decreases in porosity, resulting in decreased permeability and wicking properties. Increasing yarn twist increased the porosity of the fabrics. Lyocell fabrics showed improved permeability and wicking properties over modal fabrics due to Lyocell fibers’ high percentage of fibrillary structure.