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1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
KNITTED MICROFIBER CLOTHS FOR GREEN CLEANING
R.A.M.Abd El-Hady (1) & E.M.Abou-Taleb (2)
(1) & (2) Eng. Lecturer In Spinning, weaving &knitting Dept., Faculty of Applied Arts, Helwan
University, Giza, Egypt.
Abstract: Green cleaning refers to using cleaning methods with environmentally-friendly ingredients
and chemicals to preserve human health and environmental quality. Under many aspects, microfibers
are much greener cleaning materials than any other similar products. Microfiber consists of very fine
polyester and polyamide fibers that execute to be excellent dust and dirt eliminators, quick and effective
absorbers, easy drying, environmentally friendly, creating the ultimate, cost effective cleaning cloth. The
main objective of this research is to study the information of the microfibers and their blends used in
fabric production. The concept is to use various types of microfibers and their blends to produce
different constructions of woven and knitted fabrics with better fabric performance, superior water
absorption and dust trapping for green cleaning applications. This work is further extended to include
testing, characterization and evaluation of the various woven and knitted microfiber constructions
obtained, in order to clarify their functional properties.
Keywords: Environmentally-friendly, Water Absorption, Dust Trapping, Functional Properties.
Introduction
Many of the household cleaners we use contain a variety of harmful toxic chemicals such as
formaldehyde, phenol, ammonia, ethanol, butane, and propane….etc. These chemicals have a large
impact on our health and environment. Individuals that suffer from allergies or multiple chemical
sensitivities are even more susceptible to the ill effects of these toxic chemicals [1].
'Green cleaning' is a term that has been coined to describe a trend away from chemically-reactive and
toxic cleaning products which contain various toxic chemicals some of which emit volatile organic
compounds (VOCs) causing respiratory and dermatological problems among other adverse effects [2].
Green cleaning can also describe the way residential and industrial cleaning products are manufactured,
packaged and distributed. If the manufacturing process is environmentally-friendly and the products are
biodegradable, then the term 'green' or eco-friendly may apply [3].
However, there is a faster healthier way to clean - Microfiber cleaning cloths. They enable to clean
almost everything with just the cloth and hot water. They eliminate the need to carry around different
cleaners for different uses. These cloths are a great environmentally friendly healthy alternative to
cleaning without chemicals. Microfiber cleaning cloths provide a pure, clean, simple, safe and fast method
of cleaning [4].
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
Because microfibers have created a little revolution in the cleaning world, its impact, besides being labor
saving and cost saving, is environmental friendly [5]. Microfibers textile designed for cleaning are
precision tools with remarkable efficiency that allow cleaning on a microscopic scale. Thus, according to
tests, using microfiber materials to clean a surface leads to reducing the number of bacteria by 99%
whereas a conventional cleaning material reduces this number only by 33%. In addition, microfiber
cleaning tools have the ability to absorb fat and grease and their electrostatic properties have a high dust
attracting power, hence making useless many cleaning products.
Microfiber commonly refers to synthetic fibers that measure less than one denier [6]. Synthetic
microfibers have been developed in Japan in the early 1970’s by Dr. Miyoshi Okamoto. Despite their
great potential it took some years before they find various applications [7]. Microfiber might seem similar
to cotton or sponges, but they are radically different. Microfiber is a densely constructed synthetic fiber
made up of a blend of polyester and polyamide or nylon. The fibers are one-sixteenth the size of a human
hair. This combination of density and small size allows the fibers to hold up to seven times their weight in
water [8].
The most common types of microfibers are made from polyesters, polyamides (e.g. nylon, kevlar,
nomex, trogamide), rayon and most recently acrylic or a conjugation of polyester and polyamide to obtain
specific properties including: softness, durability, absorption, wicking abilities, water repellency,
electrodynamics, and filtering capabilities. They also can be blended with other fibers including cotton,
linen, wool, rayon and lycra or spandex. Blends enhance the appearance, hand, drape and performance
properties of the fabric [9].
Most cleaning microfibers have a so-called "pie wedges" cross section made of polyester and nylon
(polyamide). Splitting those fibbers separates the nylon star-shaped core from the polyester wedges and
divides the fiber into 9 different (in size, shape and composition) strands. As a result the fibers capacities,
such as water absorption or dust attraction are greatly increased. They are also environmentally friendly
by reducing consumables used such as chemical cleaners and paper towels [10]. Microfiber's ability to
clean with a reduction in chemical usage and the removal of bacteria and viruses has propelled the
product to new areas [11]. Microfiber technology allows workers to clean faster, better and safer than
traditional cleaning methods [12].
Textiles produced with microfiber yarns are softer and possess better drape and they provide lighter
weight, dimensional stability and easy to care textiles for the consumer [13]. Microfibers can be woven or
knitted into a variety of fabrics structures such as Plain, Twill, Jersey, Rib and Interlock. Microfiber clean
cloths are recommended for cleaning: eyeglasses, camera lenses, video recorder lenses, binoculars,
glassware, crystal, computer screens, artwork, fine china, antique or fine furniture, stainless steel and
many other delicate cleaning applications as the list of uses is endless [14].
The overall objective of this work is to expand the boundaries of knitting and weaving processing with
the ultimate goal of producing better microfiber clean cloths constructions for green cleaning
applications. To achieve the goal, the construction of the microfiber clean cloths and the parameters
associated with are studied. We have followed the steps outlined under:
Selection of the type of microfibers or yarns that could be used to produce the clean cloths,
including specification of these fibers or yarns (material, count, composition, spun type, number of
fibers in the microfibers …etc).
Selection of the manufacturing mechanism that could be used to produce the clean cloths (woven
mechanism and weft knitted mechanism). Applying a definite mechanism is ruled by its theories and
application forms.
Studying the required ratio of various microfibers type and the different clean cloths mechanism
leads to definite design parameters (choosing the appropriate fibers, yarn type, fabric construction,
fabric structure…etc) in order to fulfill the clean cloths concept.
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
Testing the clean cloths constructions in order to determine the feasibility and the functional
properties of the design and the parameters associated with.
Based on these steps, an innovative design was developed to set up the best construction of
microfibers clean cloths using weft knitted techniques with better functional and performance
properties.
2- Materials and Methods
2.1. Specimen
The weft knitted samples were produced on circular and flat weft knitting machine as the yarns are
running continuously around the fabric. Ten samples were produced on Jersey flat machine (Diameter
30", Gauge 10). Another sample was produced on Rib flat machine (Diameter 30", Gauge 10) machine.
Last knitted sample was produced on Interlock circular machine (Diameter 30", Gauge 18).
Otherwise, plain weave is the simplest and most common interlacing of warp and weft yarns. The warp
and weft are of equal tension and spacing and it is equally visible on the surface. Plain weave has many
different characteristics such as; snag resistant, wrinkles, lower tear strength, strong and hard-wearing.
According to these characteristics, plain weave structure was chosen to produce the last sample.
The specifications of all produced samples could be seen in Table (1). The difference between the
thirteen samples depends on its various constructions.
Table 1 The specifications of Produced Samples
No.
Yarn Count
Fabric
Composition
Fabric
Structure
Fabric Weight
(g/m2)
Fabric
Thickness (mm)
1
150\288
Denier
100% polyester
microfibers
Plain Weave
1x1
205
0.46
2
150\288
Denier
100% polyester
microfibers
Interlock
360
1.4
3
150\288
Denier
100% polyester
microfibers
Rib1x1
300
.9
4
150\288
Denier
100% polyester
microfibers
Jersey
260
0.8
5
200\288
100% polyester
Jersey
278
0.89
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
Denier
microfibers
6
300\288
Denier
100% polyester
microfibers
Jersey
327
1.03
7
150\96
Denier
100% polyester
microfibers
Jersey
260
0.8
8
150 Denier
100% polyester
multifilament
Jersey
260
0.9
9
30\1 Nec
100% spun
polyester
Jersey
265
0.83
10
30\1 Nec
100% cotton
Jersey
265
1.3
11
200\120
Denier
100% polyamide
microfibers
Jersey
278
.88
12
150\288
Denier +
200\120
Denier
85% polyester
microfibers +
15% polyamide
microfibers
Jersey
267
0.83
13
150\288
Denier +
30\1 Nec
85% polyester
microfibers +15%
cotton
Jersey
264
0.82
2.2. Measurements of Manufactured Samples
Several tests were carried out in order to evaluate the fabric properties. These tests include mechanical
and physical properties tests.
2.2.1. Thickness Test
The thickness samples were measured by the Teclock tester under a pressure 0.2 kg f/cm2 according to
the ASTM D1778-96 ( 2007) [15].
2.2. 2. Weight Test
This test was carried out by using Mettler H 30 apparatus according to the ASTM D3776 / D3776M - 09a
[16].
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
2.2.3. Water Absorption Test
This test was carried out for all samples, according to the ASTM D570 - 98(2010) [17].
2.2.4. Fabric Weariness or Abrasion Tester
This test was carried out for all samples, according to the ASTM D3885 - 07a [18].
2.2.5. Soil Release: Oily Stain Release Test
This test was carried out for all samples, according to the AATCC 130-2000 [19].
3-Results and Discussion
Since the main purpose of this paper was to study the effect of some fabric structure factors on its
absorption characteristics and functional properties (especially fabric weariness and oily stain release
properties) for green cleaning applications, different fabric types were studied with various constructions
parameters.
3.1 Absorption Characteristics
Main results obtained from carrying out related test to study the effect of some fabric construction
factors on its water absorption percent. Figure (1) shows the effect of manufacturing mechanism, Figure
(2) shows the effect of fabric structure, Figure (3) shows the effect of spun type, Figure (4) shows the
effect of yarn count, Figure (5) shows the effect of number of fibers in the microfibers- yarns and Figure
(6) shows the effect of fabric composition. Water absorption is expressed as increase in weight percent.
Water Absorption Percent = [(Wet weight - Dry weight)/ Dry weight] x 100.
The parameters affecting the absorption characteristics of produced fabrics under study for green
cleaning can be classified into:
3.1.1. The Effect of Manufacturing Mechanism
Applying a definite mechanism is ruled by its theories and application forms. Two different mechanisms
were selected to produce green cleaning fabrics. Figure (1) shows the water absorption (%) values of
sample No. 1 which presented the plain woven mechanism and sample No. 4 which presented the plain
weft knitted mechanism.
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
Figure (1) The Water Absorption (%) Values of the Different Mechanisms
Figure (1) indicates that plain knitted mechanism causes better “more” water absorption properties than
plain woven mechanism by using the same other manufacturing parameters. As in weft knitted structures
there is no single straight line of yarn anywhere in the pattern, it causes perfect absorption and porosity
properties. This is unavailable from woven fabrics because of its geometry structure.
3.1.2. The Effect of Structure
Textile structure is highly affected the absorption characteristics of produced samples. Three different
basic weft knitted structures were selected to produce green cleaning fabrics. Figure (2) shows the
values of water absorption (%) of sample No. 2 which presented the Interlock structure, sample No. 3
which presented the Rib structure and sample No.4 which presented the Jersey structure.
Figure (2) The Water Absorption (%) Values of the Different Structures
According to its geometry structure interlock structure causes better “more” water absorption properties
than rib and jersey structures by using the same other manufacturing parameters, as shown in Figure (2).
The Water Absorption % of the Different
Mechanisms
0
5
10
15
20
25
Sample 1
Sample 4
Sample No.
Water Absorption %
The Water Absorption % of the Different Structures
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
Sample 2
Sample 3
Sample 4
Sample No.
Water Absorption %
%
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
3.1.3. The Effect of Spun Type
When high-quality microfibers are combined with the right knitting process, it creates an extremely
effective cleaning material. This material can hold up to several times its weight in water. Figure (3)
shows the values of water absorption (%) of sample No. 4 which presented the composition of 100%
polyester microfibers, sample No. 8 which presented the composition of 100% polyester multifilament
and sample No.9 which presented 100% spun polyester.
Figure (3) The Water Absorption (%) Values of the Different Spun Type
Figure (3) indicates that microfibers mechanism causes better “more” water absorption properties than
multifilament and spun mechanism by using the same other manufacturing parameters. Microfibers are
engineered in such a way as to make them very sensitive to the capillary effect. The action of splitting
microfibers is a clincher as it releases the polyester wedges shaped, which is rather hydrophilic, while
multiplying the number of strands available on a same volume. It thus proportionally increases the total
added surface of all the fibers available and hence enhances the sorption properties of the microfibers
fabric. This is unavailable from multifilament and spun mechanism because of its engineered
constructions.
3.1.4. The Effect of Yarn Count
The yarn count (Denier), the fabric weight (gm/m²) and the fabric thickness (mm) of the tested samples
play an important role in reaching the required value of the absorption (%). Increasing the yarn count
increases the weight per unit area and the thickness of fabric (mm), whereas the surface and volume
The Water Absorption % of the Different Spun
Type
0
5
10
15
20
25
Sample 4
Sample 8
Sample 9
Sample No.
Water Absorption %
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
coefficient decreases. As a result, the values of water absorption (%) through the surface of the used
fabric increase, as shown in Figure (4).
Figure (4) The Water Absorption (%) Values of the Different Yarn Count (Denier)
Figure (4) indicates that, microfibers mechanism with higher yarn count (Denier) causes better “more”
water absorption properties than lower yarn count (Denier) by using the same other manufacturing
parameters.
3.1.5. The Effect of Number of Fibers in the Microfibers- Yarns
Microfiber is a fiber with less than 1 denier per filament. Fibers are combined to create yarns. Yarns are
knitted or woven in a variety of constructions. While many microfibers are made of polyester, they can
also be composed of polyamide or other polymers.
Figure (5) shows the values of water absorption (%) of sample No. 4 which presented the composition of
150\288 Denier polyester microfibers, sample No. 7 which presented the composition of 150\96 Denier
polyester microfibers and sample No.8 which presented 150\36 Denier polyester multifilament.
The Water Absorption % of the Different Yarn
Count (Denier)
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
Sample 4
Sample 5
Sample 6
Sample No.
Water Absorption %
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
Figure (5) The Water Absorption (%) Values of the Different Number of Fibers in the Microfibers- Yarns
Microfibers are so thin that when they are woven together they create a surface area 40 times more
than that of a regular fiber – creating an expanded surface area with dramatically enhanced absorbing
power due to the capillary action of the fine yarns. On average, a microfiber can retain up to 8 times its
weight in water. Once inside the microfibers, water will be distributed quite fairly between fibers.
Increasing number of microfibers in the microfibers -yarns increases the values of water absorption (%)
through the surface of the used fabric, as shown in Figure (5).
3.1.6. The Effect of Fabric Composition
Most cleaning microfibers have a so-called "pie wedges" cross section made of polyester and nylon
(polyamide). Splitting those fibbers separates the nylon star-shaped core from the polyester wedges and
divides the fiber into 9 different (in size, shape and composition) strands. As a result the fibers
capacities, such as water absorption or dust attraction are greatly increased. Polyester is lyophilic while
Polyamide is hydrophilic, which means it has an affinity to water. Generally, moisture regain of polyester
is around 0.4%, polyamide around 4.5% and cotton around 7%.
With the proper combination of materials and the splitting of the already super fine fibers, these unique
microfiber cleaning materials are created. Figure (6) shows the values of water absorption (%) of sample
No. 4 which presented the composition of 100% polyester microfibers, sample No. 10 which presented
the composition of 100% cotton, sample No. 11 which presented the composition of 100% polyamide
microfibers, sample No. 12 which presented the composition of blended fabric (85% polyester
microfibers +15% polyamide microfibers) and sample No.13 which presented the composition of
blended fabric (85% polyester microfibers +15% cotton).
The Water Absorption % of the Different
Number of Fibers in the Microfibers- Yarns
0
5
10
15
20
25
Sample 4
Sample 7
Sample 8
Sample No.
Water Absorption %
%
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
Figure (6) The Water Absorption (%) Values of the Different Fabric Composition
Blends enhance the appearance, hand, drape and performance properties of the fabric. Figure (6)
indicates that, microfibers mechanism with blended composition (85% polyester microfibers +15%
polyamide) causes the best “more” water absorption properties than all others compositions by using
the same other manufacturing parameters. When combined, these two materials result in a microfiber
cleaning fabric with the advantages of both synthetics. It is this perfect combination of polyester
microfiber and nylon that give these cleaning cloths their special properties.
3.2 Fabric Weariness or Abrasion Resistance Properties
High friction materials can prevent sliding under high loads or steep inclines. Abrasion is rubbing away of
component fibers and yarns of fabric. Abrasion resistance is the ability of a fabric to withstand rubbing it
gets in everyday use. Rubbing may be against itself or others surfaces. Main results obtained from
carrying out related test to study the effect of some fabric construction factors on its abrasion resistance
properties. Figure (7) shows the effect of manufacturing mechanism, Figure (8) shows the effect of
fabric structure, Figure (9) shows the effect of spun type, Figure (10) shows the effect of yarn count,
Figure (11) shows the effect of number of fibers in the microfibers- yarns and Figure (12) shows the
effect of fabric composition. Weariness or abrasion resistance is expressed as the decrease in thickness
percent after abrasion (100 cycles).
Lose in thickness (%) = [(original thickness – thickness after abrasion)/ original thickness] x 100.
The parameters affecting the weariness or abrasion resistance characteristics of produced fabrics under
study for green cleaning can be classified into:
The Water Absorption % of the Different
Fabric Composition
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
Sample 4
Sample 10
Sample 11
Sample 12
Sample 13
Sample No.
Water Absorption %
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
3.2.1. The Effect of Manufacturing Mechanism
Figure (7) shows the lose in thickness (%) values after abrasion of sample No. 1 which presented the
plain woven mechanism and sample No. 4 which presented the plain weft knitted mechanism.
Figure (7) The Lose in Thickness (%) Values after Abrasion of the Different Mechanisms
Plain weave is a structure where warp yarns alternatively lift and go over across one weft yarn and vice
versa is the simplest woven structure. Compared to plain knitted of the same fabric parameters, plain
weave has better fabric area density and cover factor which influence the strength, thickness, stiffness,
stability and abrasion resistance of the fabric. Figure (7) indicates that plain weave mechanism causes
better “less” abrasion loss properties than plain knitted mechanism by using the same other
manufacturing parameters.
3.2.2. The Effect of Structure
The effects of various knit structures on the abrasion strength have been analyzed. Surface abrasion is
considered perhaps the most important factor to insure good cleaning process. Three different basic
weft knitted structures were selected to produce green cleaning fabrics. Figure (8) shows the lose in
thickness (%) values after abrasion of sample No. 2 which presented the Interlock structure, sample No.
3 which presented the Rib structure and sample No.4 which presented the Jersey structure.
The Lose in Thickness % after Abrasion of the
Different Mechanisms
32
32.5
33
33.5
34
34.5
35
35.5
sample 1
sample 4
Sample No.
Lose in Thickness %
%
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
Figure (8) The Lose in Thickness (%) Values after Abrasion of the Different Structures
Because of the different structural properties of the fabric samples chosen, the results indicate that
interlock structure causes better “less” abrasion loss properties than rib and jersey structures by using the
same other manufacturing parameters, as shown in Figure (8).
3.2.3. The Effect of Spun Type
Microfibers are synthetic fibers that measure less than one denier. In spite of very fine quality,
microfibers have exceptional strength and they are very durable. Figure (9) shows the lose in thickness
(%) values after abrasion of sample No. 4 which presented the composition of 100% polyester
microfibers, sample No. 8 which presented the composition of 100% polyester multifilament and sample
No.9 which presented 100% spun polyester.
Figure (9) The Lose in Thickness (%) Values after Abrasion of the Different Spun Type
The choice the shape and geometry of the yarn will play a significant role with regards to abrasion
resistance. Figure (9) indicates that microfibers mechanism causes better “less” abrasion loss properties
than multifilament and spun mechanism by using the same other manufacturing parameters. Because
microfibers are so fine, many fibers can be packed together very tightly.
The Lose in Thickness % after abrasion of the
Different Structures
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
Sample 2
Sample 3
Sample 4
Sample No.
Lose in Thickness %
%
The Lose in Thickness % after Abrasion of the
Different Spun Type
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
Sample 4
Sample 8
Sample 9
Sample No.
Lose in Thickness %
%
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
The denseness results in other desirable properties. With many more fine fibers required to form a yarn,
greater fiber surface area results making more abrasion resistance properties possible.
3.2.4. The Effect of Yarn Count
Increasing the yarn count increases the weight per unit area and the thickness of fabric. Figure (10)
shows the lose in thickness (%) values after abrasion of sample 4 which presented the composition of
150\288 Denier polyester microfibers, sample No. 5 which presented the composition of 200\288 Denier
polyester microfibers and sample No.6 which presented 300\288 Denier polyester microfibers.
Figure (10) The Lose in and Thickness (%) Values after Abrasion of the Different Yarn Count (Denier)
The yarn count and yarn material influence the coefficient of friction. The relation between average
count and weight per unit area with each of the strength parameters has been found to be highly
significant to decrease the abrasion loss. Figure (10) indicates that, microfibers mechanism with higher
yarn count (Denier) causes better “less” abrasion loss properties than lower yarn count (Denier) by using
the same other manufacturing parameters.
3.2.5. The Effect of Number of Fibers in the Microfibers- Yarns
The many tiny filaments or fibers can slide back and forth and maneuver around within the yarns in a
fabric allowing the fabric to be more tightly and abrasion resistance. Figure (11) shows the lose in
thickness (%) values after abrasion of sample No. 4 which presented the composition of 150\288 Denier
polyester microfibers, sample No. 7 which presented the composition of 150\96 Denier polyester
microfibers and sample No.8 which presented 150\36 Denier polyester multifilament.
The Lose in Thickness % after Abrasion of the
Different Yarn Count (Denier)
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
Sample 4
Sample 5
Sample 6
Sample No.
Lose in Thickness %
%
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
Figure (11) The Lose in and Thickness (%) Values after Abrasion of the Different Number of Fibers in the
Microfibers- Yarns
If you take many finer fibers together until they form the same diameter as the thick yarn, they will form
a strengthen yarn. Each of the individual fiber can move independently to create more flexibility and
weariness resistance. This effect occurs with microfibers. Increasing number of microfibers in the
microfibers -yarns increases the abrasion properties of the fabric, as shown in Figure (11).
3.2.6. The Effect of Fabric Composition
With microfibers, the holes are finer than with conventional fibers. Potentially, any man-made fiber
could be made into a microfiber. Microfibers are most commonly found in polyester and nylon. Micros
can be used alone or blended with conventional denier man-made fibers as well as with natural fibers
such as cotton. Figure (12) shows the lose in thickness (%) values after abrasion of sample No. 4 which
presented the composition of 100% polyester microfibers, sample No. 10 which presented the
composition of 100% cotton, sample No. 11 which presented the composition of 100% polyamide
microfibers, sample No. 12 which presented the composition of blended fabric (85% polyester
microfibers +15% polyamide microfibers) and sample No.13 which presented the composition of
blended fabric (85% polyester microfibers +15% cotton).
The Lose in Thickness % after Abrasion of the
Different Number of Fibers in the Microfiber
Yarns
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
Sample 4
Sample 7
Sample 8
Sample No.
Lose in Thickness %
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
Figure (12) The Lose in Thickness (%) Values after Abrasion of the Different Fabric Composition
Blends enhance the functional and performance properties of the fabric. Figure (12) indicates that,
microfibers mechanism with blended composition (85% polyester microfibers +15% polyamide) causes
the best “less” abrasion loss properties than all others compositions by using the same other
manufacturing parameters. These mixtures improve the look; adorn and the performance of the fabric.
3.3. Oily Stain Release Properties
This test method is designed to measure the ability of fabrics to release oily stains.
A stain is applied to a test specimen and the residual stain rated on a scale from 5 to 1 by comparison
with a stain release replica showing a graduated series of stains according to the AATCC 130-2000. The
results of this test indicate that many factors affecting the oily stain release properties of a fabric;
manufacturing mechanism, structure, spun type, yarn count; number of fibers in the microfibers- yarns
and fabric composition are the most important.In statistics, a rank test is any test involving ranks. The
following ranking factor was rated according to the oily stain release test results. Current rank template
lets us export the current position of each sample rankings compared with the others, as shown in Table
(2).
Table 2 The Ranking Factor
No.
Yarn Count
Fabric Composition
Fabric
Structure
Rank
1
150\288
Denier
100% polyester
microfibers
2
2
150\288
Denier
100% polyester
microfibers
1
3
150\288
100% polyester
3
The Lose in Thickness after Abrasion of the
Different Fabric Composition
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
Sample 4
Sample 10
Sample 11
Sample 12
Sample 13
Sample No.
Lose in Thickness %
%
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
Denier
microfibers
4
150\288
Denier
100% polyester
microfibers
Jersey
6
5
200\288
Denier
100% polyester
microfibers
Plain Weave
1x1
5
6
300\288
Denier
100% polyester
microfibers
Interlock
4
7
150\96
Denier
100% polyester
microfibers
Rib1x1
7
8
150 Denier
100% polyester
multifilament
Jersey
11
9
30\1 Nec
100% spun polyester
Jersey
12
10
30\1 Nec
100% cotton
Jersey
13
11
200\120
Denier
100% polyamide
microfibers
Jersey
10
12
150\288
Denier +
200\120
Denier
85% polyester
microfibers +
15% polyamide
microfibers
Jersey
8
13
150\288
Denier +
30\1 Nec
85% polyester
microfibers +15%
cotton
Jersey
9
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
Table (2) indicates the arrangement of the samples considering the rank test result. Sample (1) provides
the best oily stain release properties compared with the other samples.
Results obtained in Table (2) indicate that the parameters affecting the oily stain release properties of
produced fabrics under study for green cleaning can be classified into:
3.3.1. The Effect of Manufacturing Mechanism
Due to its structure plain weave has better fabric area density and cover factor which influence the oily
stain release properties of the fabric.
3.3.2. The Effect of Structure
The effects of various knit structures on the oily stain release properties have been analyzed. Because of
the different structural properties of the fabric samples chosen, the results indicate that interlock
structure causes better oily stain release properties than rib and jersey structures by using the same
other manufacturing parameters
3.3.3. The Effect of Spun Type
Compared to traditional yarns, microfiber has a number of green cleaning advantages; microfibers
penetrate into surfaces at a finer level than normal fibres removing higher levels of dirt and grease whilst
and creating a larger overall surface area 40 times greater than that of a regular fiber due to weakening
the uprightness of the fibers. Because of its incredibly thin structure, Microfiber is able to penetrate the
finest microscopic particles of dirt and grease on any surface. Split possesses numerous wedges rather
than the rounded yarns found in ordinary cloth. This wedge structure is what provides the superior
penetration of grease and oil verses that of common fabrics. In addition, the rounded fibers on most
cloths only push the dirt along the surface, whereas the wedge-shaped Microfibers grab the particles of
grime and pull them into the dense internal structure.
Microfiber picks up and traps dust, dirt, grease, and particles inside the “star-shaped” grooves of the fiber.
The sharp edges of millions of these fibers cut through dried-in stains, attracting and absorbing dirt and
micro-particles, enabling the fiber to clean and polish at the same time, eliminating the need for additional
chemical cleansers. Therefore, only water is needed as a detergent to clean any type of surface. All of
these advantage make microfibers mechanism causes better oily stain release properties than
multifilament and spun mechanism by using the same other manufacturing parameters.
3.2.4. The Effect of Yarn Count
Increasing the yarn count increases the weight per unit area and the thickness of fabric. Microfibers
mechanism with higher yarn count (Denier) causes better oily stain release properties than lower yarn
count (Denier) by using the same other manufacturing parameters
One Microfiber is 100 times thinner than a single strand of human hair. When they are knitted together,
the Microfibers create a surface area 40 times greater than that of a regular fiber. Due to this expanded
surface area, and to the capillary action of the fine yarns, Microfiber Cloth has dramatically enhanced the
oily stain release power.
3.3.5. The Effect of Number of Fibers in the Microfibers- Yarns
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
Fabrics made with microfibers are exceptionally soft and hold their shape well. When high-quality
microfiber is combined with the right knitting process, it creates an extremely effective cleaning material.
Microfiber products have exceptional ability to absorb oils. Increasing number of microfibers in the
microfibers -yarns increases the oily stain release power of the fabric.
3.2.6. The Effect of Fabric Composition
With microfibers, the holes are finer than with conventional fibers. Micros can be used alone or
blended with conventional denier man-made fibers as well as with natural fibers such as cotton.
Polyester is lyophillic , or has an affinity to oil, so that oil and grease adhere directly to the
fibers. Polyamide is hydrophilic, which means it has an affinity to water. As a result, any type of
dirt is very quickly and completed removed with microfiber, leaving a sparkling-clean, streak-
free surface. All of these advantage make microfiber product last so long, it far outweigh the cost
difference to cotton cleaning cloth.Once split, the cross section of regular cleaning microfibers
will take different forms according to their composition. Polyester fibers will take the shape of
wedges whereas nylon fibers will take the shape of stars with very thin branches. These angular
forms have a much more efficient impact when cleaning a surface than regular round shaped
fibers. The fibers angles can lift the smallest dusts and even some bacteria. Besides the little
space created between fibers after their splitting is narrow enough to trap all those particles. Each
kind of fibers acts in fact as a microscopic tool with specific features that in an answer to specific
needs.
Blends affected the oily stain release properties of the fabric. Microfibers mechanism with composition
(100% polyester) causes the best the oily stain release properties than all others compositions by using
the same other manufacturing parameters.
4- Conclusions
Innovations in microfiber products are being announced regularly. These relate to how the cloths are
manufactured and safety conveniences. Current research work is concerned with investigation of
microfibers cleaning cloths mechanism. Emphasis is placed on enhancing the functional and
performance properties of microfibers cleaning cloths with different fabric construction. Results
obtained by varying the fabric construction factors and those obtained by changing the manufacturing
mechanism, structure, spun type, yarn count; number of fibers in the microfibers- yarns and fabric
composition. The results bring into focus the most appropriate conditions for obtaining the microfibers
cloths with high ability of cleaning.
Microfiber cleaning products provide an eco-friendly way of cleaning faster, easier and cheaper with just
microfiber and water without the need for chemical cleaners. In cleaning applications, microfibers offer
many advantages and to that extent are greener than cotton and other fibers used for the same purpose.
1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
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1st SMARTEX-Egypt 2011(World Textiles Conference), Nov, 22nd–24th 2011, Kafrelsheikh University, Egypt.
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Author(s):
Eng. Lecturer.Rasha Abd El-Hady Mohammed (Corresponding Address)&
Eng. Lecturer.Eman Mohammed Abou-Taleb
Spinning, weaving &knitting Dept., Faculty of Applied Arts, Helwan University, Giza, Egypt.
Faculty of Applied Arts- 5 Dr Ahmed Zewal St.
Orman- Giza- Egypt.
Po- Box: 12311.
Mobile: 0101619666 Email: rasha_hady1@yahoo.com