Influence of different chemical treatments on the properties of PC fabric used as lining
Purpose The properties of polyester/cotton (PC) fabric after chemical treatments as lining in woolen suits has been investigated, as the purpose of this paper is to study the influence of different finishing agents and their concentration on the properties of PC fabrics. Design/methodology/approach Three different chemical finishes such as anti-slip finish, softener and moisture management finish were applied to currently popular 80/20 PC pocketing fabric at three different concentration levels. A total of 60 seams were produced from 2/1 twill woolen shell fabric and chemically treated lining. Six important tests defining comfort and seam’s quality of lining fabric were chosen, namely, seam strength, seam slippage, stiffness, drape, water vapor transmission (WVT), abrasion resistance to study its properties and testing were done as per standardized test methods. Findings Chemical treatments affect the properties of PC fabric used as lining significantly in terms of seam strength, seam slippage, WVT and abrasion resistance. Among the three applied chemical finishes softener, at 20, 40 and 60 g/l, was found to be the best choice to make PC fabric suitable in terms of seam performance, durability, drape and comfort for use lining in suits with economic advantage. Originality/value The paper contributes to understanding the properties of relatively cheap 80/20 PC pocketing fabric used as lining in a suit.