Thermal comfort properties of silk knitted denim fabrics

Abstract

This study has been aimed to develop three different knitted denim fabrics (3/1 twill) using cotton (30s) and eri silk (2/80 Nm) yarns in different proportions (100% cotton, 50/50 cotton/eri silk, 100% eri silk). Dimensional, physical and thermal comfort properties have been analysed for the developed samples. Thermal properties of the fabric are analysed using a flat plate thermal conductivity tester, and the wicking ability is measured with a vertical wicking tester. Eri silk knitted denim fabric is found with the excellent dimensional, physical and thermal comfort properties better than that of cotton and 50/50 cotton/eri silk blended knitted denim fabrics. The results indicate that the eri silk knitted denim fabric is more suitable for functional wear applications.