Two-layer fabrics for moisture management

Abstract

Purpose

Woven fabrics have been popularised in use owing to their superior properties and functionality. Today, weavers strive to add value to their product to be competitive and to secure profit in performance fabrics such as technical fabrics, smart fabrics and sportswear fabrics. Over the years, fabrics with special properties such as moisture management have gained higher demand. In this context, multi-layer fabrics provide a reasonable solution to the demand.

Design/methodology/approach

An attempt was made to develop two-layer fabrics with different compositions and properties. A two-layer woven fabric was produced using handloom weaving, with a hydrophobic inner layer and hydrophilic outer layer, the two layers being attached together using different stitching methods. Different fabric structures and yarn counts were used to achieve the objectives.

Findings

Experiments carried out verified the suitability of the developed fabric for effective moisture management. It was found that a fabric with a 100% cotton outer layer and 100% polyester inner layer, both layers of 2 × 2 matt weave, showed the best properties.

Practical implications

In the present COVID-19 pandemic situation, the use of masks in public has become mandatory in many countries. This research will help handloom manufacturers meet the need using simple methods.

Originality/value

This research uses handloom fabric. As such it provides an opportunity for small and medium enterprises to use available low-cost technology to develop fabric with superior properties.

Citation

Niles, N., Fernando, S., Rathnayake, N., Hewamalavi, A. and Weerasinghe, S. (2021), "Two-layer fabrics for moisture management", Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, Vol. 25 No. 1, pp. 64-74. https://doi.org/10.1108/RJTA-07-2020-0079