6 Basic Classification Of Fabric Properties

Classification of Fabric Properties

Fabric properties can be commonly divided into 6 different groups as given below: 

1. Physical Properties

2. Mechanical Properties

3. Thermal Properties

4. Aesthetic Properties

5. Structural properties

6. Low-stress mechanical properties of fabrics

1. Physical Properties:

Weight: This refers to the heaviness or lightness of fabric.

Thickness: The measurement of how thick or thin the fabric is.

Density: The closeness of the fibers in the fabric.

Width: The measurement of how wide the fabric is.

Length: The measurement of how long the fabric is.

2. Mechanical Properties:

Strength: The fabric's resistance to tearing and breaking.

Elasticity: The fabric's ability to stretch and return to its original shape.

Flexibility: The fabric's ability to bend easily without breaking.

Durability: The fabric's ability to withstand wear and tear.

Pilling: The tendency of the fabric to form small balls on its surface.

3. Thermal Properties:

Insulation: The fabric's ability to trap or release heat.

Heat resistance: The fabric's ability to resist heat.

Heat conductivity: The fabric's ability to transfer heat.

Breathability: The fabric's ability to allow airflow and moisture transfer.

4. Aesthetic Properties:

Color: The appearance of the fabric in terms of hue, shade, and intensity.

Print/Pattern: The design or motif printed or woven onto the fabric.

Luster: The fabric's degree of shine or reflectivity.

Texture: The feel or tactile quality of the fabric.

5. Structural properties:

Structural properties of fabric refer to the characteristics of a fabric's composition, specifically how the fibers are arranged and interwoven to result in its physical and mechanical properties. The structural properties of fabric include the weave of the fabric, the density and thickness of the fibers, and the yarn twist and count.

Different types of weaves, such as plain, twill, and satin weaves, can produce fabrics with different strengths, levels of flexibility, and textures 1. The density and thickness of the fibers create the fabric's weight, drape, and durability, while the yarn twist and count affect the fabric's strength, stretch, and luster 2.

Understanding the structural properties of fabric is crucial in determining its suitable applications and care requirements. For example, fabrics with tight weaves and higher fiber densities are typically more durable and better suited for upholstery and heavy-use garments, while looser weaves and lighter fibers are more appropriate for drapery and lightweight clothing.

6. Low-stress mechanical properties of fabrics:

Low-stress mechanical properties of fabrics play a significant role in determining their quality and performance. Fabrics are generally more extensible in the low-load region compared to the higher-load region. Understanding the low-stress mechanical properties of fabric is crucial for various applications, especially in tailoring and apparel manufacturing.

The low-stress mechanical properties of fabric are associated with its fabric handle, which affects the overall quality of the fabric and apparel. Factors such as yarn count and blend proportions of fibers, such as wool and cotton, can influence the low-stress mechanical properties of fabrics.

Research has shown that low-stress mechanical properties, particularly biaxial and multiaxial properties, are highly related to the perceived tactile comfort of fabrics[3]. Improving the tactile comfort of fabrics can be achieved through various methods, including stone washing.

To analyze and measure the low-stress mechanical properties, several evaluation systems, such as the Kawabata Evaluation System for Fabrics (KES-F), are utilized. These systems provide a standardized approach to quantitatively assess and interpret the mechanical properties of fabrics under low-stress conditions.

In summary, the low-stress mechanical properties of fabrics have a significant impact on their quality and comfort. Factors such as fiber composition, yarn count, and specific treatments like stone washing can influence these properties. Evaluation systems like KES-F are used to measure and interpret the low-stress mechanical properties of fabrics.

Sources:

1. "Woven fabric structures and properties", ScienceDirect, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780081012734000044 

2. "Structure and properties of textile materials", ScienceDirect, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9781845696955500027 

3. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/stress-mechanical-property