Comparative Assessment of Sensory Comfort Properties Across Eco-Friendly Textile Materials for Apparel

Abstract

This study evaluates the sensory comfort of eco-friendly textiles, comparing natural (bamboo, organic cotton, hemp, jute, soya bean protein fibers), regenerated (Tencel (lyocell)), and synthetic (recycled polyester, recycled nylon) fibers for sustainable apparel applications. Through a comprehensive analysis, we quantify thermal, moisture, and tactile properties, revealing significant performance differences. Bamboo (thermal conductivity 0.049 W/m·K, air permeability 695 mm/s) excels in cooling and breathability, while hemp (0.022 W/m·K, thermal resistance 22.0 × 10−3 m2 ·K/W) offers superior insulation. Recycled polyester (1635 mm/s, moisture regains 0.4%) outperforms natural fibers in breathability but lags in moisture absorption compared to bamboo (13.0%) and Tencel (lyocell) (11.0%). Tencel (lyocell) and soya bean protein fibers provide smooth tactile comfort (friction 0.2–0.3), unlike coarser hemp (0.45). Emerging technologies like electrospinning enhance bamboo’s air permeability by 30% (~900 mm/s), while machine learning optimizes cotton blends for 15–20% better moisture management. Synthetic fibers’ low biodegradability (20–200 years vs. bamboo’s 1–2 years) poses environmental trade-offs. These metrics guide industry decisions, favoring bamboo and Tencel (lyocell) for moisture-absorbing apparel, hemp for insulation, and polyester for activewear, balancing comfort and sustainability.