Thermal and Thermo-Mechanical Damage to Synthetics

Abstract

A typical characteristic of synthetic fibers is their thermoplasticity. In order to provide the material with optimal use characteristics, heat treatment in the thermoplastic range cannot be avoided during manufacturing, finishing and garment production. Irreversible damage can only be prevented if the softening range of the fiber polymers is considered thoroughly. In addition, synthetics can suffer irreversible deformation during all processes which generate friction heat. Pressure or impact, causing a temperature increase, can also lead to the deformation of synthetics [36, 37].