Impact of laser fading on physico-mechanical properties and fibre morphology of multicomponent denim fabrics

Abstract

Laser fading technology is used to give a unique worn look to a fabric. This finishing technique is environmentally friendly compared to conventional methods because it reduces the use of harmful chemicals and large amounts of water. A carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) laser with a wavelength of 10.6 µm was used in this study. In bulk production, fixed manufacturing parameters help to reduce production preparation time. Thus, two combinations of laser power and speed of the laser cutter head (14 W and 230 mm/s; 16 W and 350 mm/s) were used to determine how universal the fixed laser parameters are for fading five different types of multicomponent twill and satin weave denim fabrics, which contain cotton, elastane, polyester and viscose. Physico-mechanical properties (tear, tensile properties and abrasion resistance) were tested to evaluate the effect of the selected laser parameters on fabric strength properties. Microscopical analysis was performed to assess the effect of laser fading on the yarn and fibre morphology of denim fabrics.