The Effect of Various Types of Detergents on the Mechanical Properties of Wool Knitted Fabrics Part 1 : The Shrinkage of Wool Knitted Fabrics

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to estimate the effects of detergents on shrinkage of wool knitted fabrics. The experiments were carried out by the use of an electric washer under conditions based on the home laundry. The main results obtained are summarized as follows. (1) The order of shrinkage caused by the various types of detergents is as follows; Light duty syndets>Heavy duty syndets>Soaps (2) Differential friction effects (D.F.E.) became smaller in the order of soaps, heavy duty syndets and light duty syndets. It was found that the shrinkage lowered as D.F.E. became smaller. (3) Electron micrographs of a wool single fiber washed with heavy duty syndets or soaps showed the damage of cuticle washed with soaps. (4) These phenomena can be explained in terms of decrease of D.F.E. of wool knitted fabrics washed with heavy duty syndets or soaps. © 1981, The Japan Research Association for Textile End-Uses. All rights reserved.