The impact of type relaxations on the structural characteristics and dimensional stability of half Milano rib cotton knitted fabrics

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the effects of washing and ironing on the dimensions of cotton yarn and the structural characteristics in half Milano rib knitted fabrics made from this yarn. The primary objective was to understand the impact of different relaxation methods on the dimensional stability of both yarn and fabric, as well as on the structural properties of the resulting fabric. Specifically, the study looked at the effects of three distinct relaxation methods: dry relaxation over ten days, five cycles of ironing, and ten rounds of washing. The study found that dry relaxation had minimal effects on the structural characteristics of the knitted fabrics. On the other hand, washing significantly impacted the fabric's structural properties. The study aimed to compare dimensional changes in yarn and knitted fabrics. The results indicated similarities, particularly in the lengthwise shrinkage observed in fabrics and yarn during the initial five ironing cycles. However, after two washes, distinct dimensional changes became apparent. The experiment highlights the dimensional changes in yarn and fabrics, which exhibit similarities, particularly in lengthwise shrinkage, and become more pronounced with repeated washings. These research findings provide valuable insights into identifying optimal relaxation methods to achieve dimensional stability in cotton yarn and knitted fabrics.