Influence of Cotton Fiber Quality on the Strength Properties of Cotton Fabrics Treated with Flame-resistant and Easy Care Finishes.

Authors: Ruppenicker Jr, George; Sawhney, Amar; Kimmel, Linda; Price, John

Submitted to: American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists Review
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 8/15/2007
Publication Date: 11/1/2007
Citation: Ruppenicker Jr, G.F., Sawhney, A.P., Kimmel, L.B., Price, J.B. 2007. Influence of Cotton Fiber Quality on the Strength Properties of Cotton Fabrics Treated with Flame-resistant and Easy Care Finishes. American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists Review. 7(11):43-48.

Interpretive Summary: Cotton fabrics often have problems meeting the high strength specifications required for military uniforms. In addition, special finishes to improve flammability resistance and smooth drying properties can further weaken the cotton fabrics. However, cottons differing widely in fiber properties are available from various regions of the United States. Selecting cottons with optimum strength properties should result in stronger, more durable fabrics. Research of this type could encourage the use of more cotton for military uniform fabrics.

Technical Abstract: Many cotton fabrics treated with modern flame-resistant and easy-care finishes cannot meet the high performance standards required by the military, and are being replaced by fabrics made from synthetic fibers, or blends of cotton with synthetic fibers. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of cotton fiber properties on the strength and durability of an Army battledress uniform fabric. Cottons differing by as much as 60% in fiber strength were evaluated. Fabrics produced from these cottons were treated with flame-resistant and easy-care finishes.