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Showing papers in "Fibers and Polymers in 2006"


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the steady shear flow properties of aqueous xanthan gum solutions of different concentrations were measured over a wide range of shear rates using a strain-controlled rheometer, and the viscous behavior was quantitatively discussed using a well-known power law type flow equation with a special emphasis on its importance in industrial processing.
Abstract: Using a strain-controlled rheometer, the steady shear flow properties of aqueous xanthan gum solutions of different concentrations were measured over a wide range of shear rates. In this article, both the shear rate and concentration dependencies of steady shear flow behavior are reported from the experimentally obtained data. The viscous behavior is quantitatively discussed using a well-known power law type flow equation with a special emphasis on its importance in industrial processing and actual usage. In addition, several inelastic-viscoplastic flow models including a yield stress parameter are employed to make a quantitative evaluation of the steady shear flow behavior, and then the applicability of these models is also examined in detail. Finally, the elastic nature is explained with a brief comment on its practical significance. Main results obtained from this study can be summarized as follows: (1) Concentrated xanthan gum solutions exhibit a finite magnitude of yield stress. This may come from the fact that a large number of hydrogen bonds in the helix structure result in a stable configuration that can show a resistance to flow. (2) Concentrated xanthan gum solutions show a marked non-Newtonian shear-thinning behavior which is well described by a power law flow equation and may be interpreted in terms of the conformational status of the polymer molecules under the influence of shear flow. This rheological feature enhances sensory qualities in food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic products and guarantees a high degree of mixability, pumpability, and pourability during their processing and/or actual use. (3) The Herschel-Bulkley, Mizrahi-Berk, and Heinz-Casson models are all applicable and have equivalent ability to describe the steady shear flow behavior of concentrated xanthan gum solutions, whereas both the Bingham and Casson models do not give a good applicability. (4) Concentrated xanthan gum solutions exhibit a quite important elastic flow behavior which acts as a significant factor for many industrial applications such as food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic manufacturing processes.

226 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the flexural properties of natural and chemically modified coir fiber reinforced cementitious composites (CFRCC) were examined, including elastic stress, flexural strength, toughness and toughness index.
Abstract: This study has examined the flexural properties of natural and chemically modified coir fiber reinforced cementitious composites (CFRCC). Coir fibers of two different average lengths were used, and the longer coir fibers were also treated with a 1 % NaOH solution for comparison. The fibers were combined with cementitious materials and chemical agents (dispersant, defoamer or wetting agent) to form CFRCC. The flexural properties of the composites, including elastic stress, flexural strength, toughness and toughness index, were measured. The effects of fiber treatments, addition of chemical agents and accelerated ageing of composites on the composites’ flexural properties were examined. The results showed that the CFRCC samples were 5–12 % lighter than the conventional mortar, and that the addition of coir fibers improved the flexural strength of the CFRCC materials. Toughness and toughness index, which were associated with the work of fracture, were increased more than ten times. For the alkalized long coir fiber composites, a higher immediate and long-term toughness index was achieved. SEM microstructure images revealed improved physicochemical bonding in the treated CFRCC.

102 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the surface topography, tensile properties, and thermal properties of Ramie fibers were investigated as reinforcement for fully biodegradable and environmental-friendly "green" composites.
Abstract: The surface topography, tensile properties, and thermal properties of ramie fibers were investigated as reinforcement for fully biodegradable and environmental-friendly ‘green’ composites. SEM micrographs of a longitudinal and cross-sectional view of a single ramie fiber showed a fibrillar structure and rough surface with irregular cross-section, which is considered to provide good interfacial adhesion with polymer resin in composites. An average tensile strength, Young’s modulus, and fracture strain of ramie fibers were measured to be 627 MPa, 31.8 GPa, and 2.7 %, respectively. The specific tensile properties of the ramie fiber calculated per unit density were found to be comparable to those of E-glass fibers. Ramie fibers exhibited good thermal stability after aging up to 160°C with no decrease in tensile strength or Young’s modulus. However, at temperatures higher than 160°C the tensile strength decreased significantly and its fracture behavior was also affected. The moisture content of the ramie fiber was 9.9%. These properties make ramie fibers suitable as reinforcement for ‘green’ composites. Also, the green composites can be fabricated at temperatures up to 160°C without reducing the fiber properties.

98 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the effects of nine lipase sources, lipase activator and nonionic surfactant on moisture regain of PET fabrics were examined and it was shown that lipase-treatment (L2 treatment) improves moisture regain up to 2.4 times (1.272 % ± 0.05) compared with untreated and buffer-treated samples.
Abstract: The aim of this paper is to improve moisture regain of PET fabrics using a lipase treatment. Effects of nine lipase sources, lipase activator and nonionic surfactant on moisture regain of PET fabrics are examined. Moisture regains of lipase-treated samples improve by two times in average compared with untreated and buffer-treated samples. Alkaline treatment creates larger pitting by more aggressive attack into fiber which is proved by SEM and water contact angle measurement. Moisture regain by alkaline treatment (0.568 % ± 0.08) does not improve. However, lipase-treatment (L2 treatment) improves moisture regain up to 2.4 times (1.272 % ± 0.05). Although lipase treatment is more moderate than alkaline treatment, lipase hydrolysis on PET fabrics improves moisture regain, efficiently. K/S values improved confirm that carboxyl and hydroxyl groups are produced on the surface of PET fabrics by lipase hydrolysis. Moisture regain and dyeability improve by lipase hydrolysis on PET fabrics.

74 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the effects of chitosan concentration in mordanting on the dyeing characteristics and the UV protection property of the dyed cotton fabric was examined, and it was reported that green tea ingredients, especially polyphenolic families (i.e., catechin), have some UV protection properties both in vivo and in topical applications.
Abstract: There is increasing interest in the many beneficial aspects of green tea to human such as anti-carcinogenic, anti-aggregant, anti-allergic, anti-bacterial, anti-mutagenic, and anti-oxidant activities. Besides these beneficial aspects, it has been reported that green tea ingredients, especially polyphenolic families (i.e., catechin), have some UV protection property both in vivo and in topical applications. In this study, green tea extract was used as a dyeing stock for cotton and the UV protection property of the dyed cotton fabric was examined. To increase the affinity of cotton fiber to the polyphenolic components in the green tea extract, a natural biopolymer, chitosan, was used as mordanting agent. The effects of chitosan concentration in mordanting on the dyeing characteristics and the UV protection property were examined. Chitosan mordanted green tea dyed cotton showed better dyeing characteristic and higher UV protection property compared with the unmordanted green tea dyed cotton. As the chitosan concentration in mordanting increased, the dyeing efficiency and the UV protection property also increased. Therefore, adapting chitosan mordanting in green tea dyeing can increase the UV protection property of cotton fabrics to some extent.

67 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, a green composite was made using Ramie fibers and soy protein concentrate (SPC) resins, and the tensile strength and Young's modulus of these composites were significantly higher compared to those of pure SPC resins.
Abstract: Fully biodegradable and environment-friendly green composite specimens were made using ramie fibers and soy protein concentrate (SPC) resin. SPC was used as continuous phase resin in green composites. The SPC resin was plasticized with glycerin. Precuring and curing processes for the resin were optimized to obtain required mechanical properties. Unidirectional green composites were prepared by combining 65 % (on weight basis) ramie fibers and SPC resin. The tensile strength and Young’s modulus of these composites were significantly higher compared to those of pure SPC resin. Tensile and flexural properties of the composite in the longitudinal direction were moderate and found to be significantly higher than those of three common wood varieties. In the transverse direction, however, their properties were comparable with those of wood specimens. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs of the tensile fracture surfaces of the green composite indicated good interfacial bonding between ramie fibers and SPC resin. Theoretical values for tensile strength and Young’s modulus, calculated using simple rule of mixture were higher than the experimentally obtained values. The main reasons for this discrepancy are loss of fiber alignment, voids and fiber compression due to resin shrinking during curing.

59 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, a 3D biomechanical mathematical model for numerically simulating the interaction between leg and compression stockings in dynamic wear was developed based on the actual geometry of the female leg obtained from 3D reconstruction of MR images and the real size and mechanical properties of the compression stocking prototype.
Abstract: The beneficial effects of graduated compression stockings (GCS) in prophylaxis and treatment of venous disorders of human lower extremity have been recognized. However, their pressure functional performances are variable and unstable in practical applications, and the exact mechanisms of action remain controversial. Direct surface pressure measurements and indirect material properties testing are not enough for fully understanding the interaction between stocking and leg. A three-dimensional (3D) biomechanical mathematical model for numerically simulating the interaction between leg and GCS in dynamic wear was developed based on the actual geometry of the female leg obtained from 3D reconstruction of MR images and the real size and mechanical properties of the compression stocking prototype. The biomechanical solid leg model consists of bones and soft tissues, and an orthotropic shell model is built for the stocking hose. The dynamic putting-on process is simulated by defining the contact of finite relative sliding between the two objects. The surface pressure magnitude and distribution along the different height levels of the leg and stress profiles of stockings were simulated. As well, their dynamic alterations with time processing were quantitatively analyzed. Through validation, the simulated results showed a reasonable agreement with the experimental measurements, and the simulated pressure gradient distribution from the ankle to the thigh (100:67:30) accorded with the advised criterion by the European committee for standardization. The developed model can be used to predict and visualize the dynamic pressure and stress performances exerted by compression stocking in wear, and to optimize the material mechanical properties in stocking design, thus, helping us understand mechanisms of compression action and improving medical functions of GCS.

51 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors examined multiple quality optimization of the injection molding for polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and looked into the dimensional deviation and strength of screws that are reduced and improved for the molding quality, respectively.
Abstract: This study examines multiple quality optimization of the injection molding for Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK). It also looks into the dimensional deviation and strength of screws that are reduced and improved for the molding quality, respectively. This study applies the Taguchi method to cut down on the number of experiments and combines grey relational analysis to determine the optimal processing parameters for multiple quality characteristics. The quality characteristics of this experiment are the screws’ outer diameter, tensile strength and twisting strength. First, one should determine the processing parameters that may affect the injection molding with the L18(21×37) orthogonal, including mold temperature, pre-plasticity amount, injection pressure, injection speed, screw speed, packing pressure, packing time and cooling time. Then, the grey relational analysis, whose response table and response graph indicate the optimum processing parameters for multiple quality characteristics, is applied to resolve this drawback. The Taguchi method only takes a single quality characteristic into consideration. Finally, a processing parameter prediction system is established by using the back-propagation neural network. The percentage errors all fall within 2%, between the predicted values and the target values. This reveals that the prediction system established in this study produces excellent results.

50 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The dyeability of poly(lactic acid) [PLA] with a range of commercial disperse dye was examined and compared to that of poly (ethylene terephthalate) [PET] in addition to the colour and fastness of the resultant dyeings.
Abstract: The dyeability of poly(lactic acid) [PLA] with a range of commercial disperse dye was examined and compared to that of poly(ethylene terephthalate) [PET] in addition to the colour and fastness of the resultant dyeings. A screening exercise in which twenty dyes of differing energy types and chemical classes were applied to PLA revealed a substantial variation between the dyes in terms of dye uptake (12–88 % at 4 %o.w.f.). Nine dyes exhausted above 70 % and were selected for further study, which involved comparison of shade and fastness of PLA dyeings with those of the corresponding PET dyeings. Differences in shade depended on hue while wet fastness of each of the PLA dyeings was either the same or 0.5–1.0 point lower than its PET counterpart. In all but one case, dye photostability in PLA was found to be very similar to that in PET. Dye build-up profiles on PLA were also investigated and from these results mixtures of compatible dyes identified.

42 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the effects of low temperature plasma (LTP) treatment on the dyeing properties of the wool fiber were studied and it was concluded that the LTP treatment could improve the coloring behavior of wool fiber.
Abstract: In this paper, the effects of low temperature plasma (LTP) treatment on the dyeing properties of the wool fiber were studied. The wool fibers were treated with oxygen plasma and three types of dye that commonly used for wool dyeing, namely: (i) acid dye, (ii) chrome dye and (iii) reactive dye, were used in the dyeing process. For acid dyeing, the dyeing rate of the LTP-treated wool fiber was greatly increased but the final dyeing exhaustion equilibrium did not show any significant change. For chrome dyeing, the dyeing rate of the LTP-treated wool fiber was also increased but the final dyeing exhaustion equilibrium was only increased to a small extent. In addition, the rate of afterchroming process was similar to the chrome dyeing process. For the reactive dyeing, the dyeing rate of the LTP-treated wool fiber was greatly increased and also the final dyeing exhaustion equilibrium was increased significantly. As a result, it could conclude that the LTP treatment could improve the dyeing behavior of wool fiber in different dyeing systems.

42 citations


Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: To develop a 2D pattern which fits tightly to the 3D human scan data for sports suits that need comfort and function for maximum performance, the user graphic interface application software for the semi-automatic garment pattern generation has been implemented using the triangle simplification scheme.
Abstract: Tight-fitting clothing pattern reflecting the accurate information of the 3D body shape has been one of the challenges for garment industry, however, fitting problems still exist. The objectives of the paper is to develop a 2D pattern which fits tightly to the 3D human scan data for sports suits that need comfort and function for maximum performance. In this study, the user graphic interface application software for the semi-automatic garment pattern generation has been implemented using the triangle simplification scheme together with 2D projections of free-falling of 3D surface polygons keeping the original 3D surface area preservation. A typical application of the developed pattern to the functional body suits is presented and verification of the proposed method is also provided.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Samples of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) grown in Malaysia were examined to determine the kraft pulp and papermaking properties of their bast (or bark) fibers.
Abstract: Samples of kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus) grown in Malaysia were examined to determine the kraft pulp and papermaking properties of their bast (or bark) fibers. Using kraft pulping process showed that bast fibers were relatively easy to cook resulting good pulp yields in the range of 45–51%. The bast pulp produced sheets with great density, tear index and dry zero-span breaking length. Kenaf bast fiber is considered promising for production of high-grade printing, writing and specialty papers.

Journal ArticleDOI
Joonseok Koh1, Sang-Mo Kang1, Soo Jin Kim1, Min-Kyung Cha1, Yoon-Jung Kwon1 
TL;DR: In this article, a pineapple protease, bromelain, was used to improve the dyeing properties of protein fibers such as wool and silk, without severe changes in mechanical properties.
Abstract: A pineapple protease, bromelain, was used to improve the dyeing properties of protein fibers such as wool and silk. The optimal condition for the activity of the pineapple protease was about 60 °C at pH 7. The wool and silk were treated with the protease extracted from a pineapple and the K/S values of the dyed wool and silk were measured using a spectrophotometer in order to compare the dye uptake. The protease treatment enhanced the dyeing properties of protein fibers without severe changes in mechanical properties. The surface appearances of protease-treated fibers were observed by microscopy.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the influence of a series of new azo direct dyes including copper-complexes based on benzidine congeners, 2,2′-dimethyl-5,5′-dipropoxybenzidine and 5, 5′-drone-derived dyes were examined using microorganism, Daphnia magna.
Abstract: The influences of a series of new azo direct dyes including copper-complexes based on benzidine congeners, 2,2′-dimethyl-5,5′-dipropoxybenzidine and 5,5′-dipropoxybenzidine, were examined using microorganism, Daphnia magna. The purpose of the research described in this paper was to use bioassays with daphnids to determine the aquatic toxicity of new azo dyes in which copper was incorporated. The results clearly show that copper has negative effects to aquatic ecosystem as expected. The study also suggested that the assay with Daphnia magna was an excellent method to evaluate the influences of dyes to the aquatic environment.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the authors found that organic sulphonates and sulphates, used as dopants, are absorbed by wool, while chlorine ions are preferably embedded on the polypyrrole layer.
Abstract: Coating the fibre surface byin situ oxidative chemical polymerisation of polypyrrole (using FeCl3 as oxidant) is a readily industrial applicable way to give electrical properties to wool with good ageing stability [1], although pre-treatments are required to avoid damage of the cuticle surface due to the acidic condition of the process. FT-IR and EDX analysis reveal that organic sulphonates and sulphates, used as dopants, are absorbed by wool, while chlorine ions are preferably embedded on the polypyrrole layer. The resulting electrical conductivity seems mainly due to the presence of chlorine as counter-ion of polypyrrole; nevertheless, the presence of arylsulphonate in the polymerisation bath increases the electrical conductivity of the coating layer.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, six nano disperse dyes were prepared using corresponding O/W nanoemulsions which were obtained with sodium laurylsulphate and caprylic triglyceride.
Abstract: Six nano disperse dyes were prepared using corresponding O/W nanoemulsions which were obtained with sodium laurylsulphate and caprylic triglyceride. The average particle size of the dyes prepared were in the range of 110–130 nm. Exhaust dyeing using nano dyes resulted in low exhaustion yields of 17–26 % on regular polyester fiber and 28–38 % on ultramicrofiber polyester. The observed low exhaustion yields of nano disperse dye can be explained by the solubilization of dye particles into surfactant micelles as well as the high stability of the nanoemulsions, these might reduce the capacity of dye uptake onto the fibers. However, higher K/S values of dyeings with nano dyes on ultramicrofiber sites compared to those on regular polyester sites suggested their potential to be more efficient dyes for finer denier microfiber polyesters.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: For thermal adaptable fabrics, the polyurethane-urea microcapsules containing phase-change materials (PCMs: hexadecane, octadecANE, and eicosane) were successfully synthesized by interfacial polycondensation using 2,4-toluene diisocyanate (TDI)/poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG400)/ethylene diamine (EDA) as shell monomers and nonionic surfactant NP-12 in an emulsion system under stirring rates of 3,000
Abstract: For thermal adaptable fabrics, the polyurethane-urea microcapsules containing phase-change materials (PCMs: hexadecane, octadecane and eicosane) were successfully synthesized by interfacial polycondensation using 2,4-toluene diisocyanate (TDI)/poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG400)/ethylene diamine (EDA) as shell monomers and nonionic surfactant NP-12 in an emulsion system under stirring rates of 3,000∼13,000 rpm The mean particle size of microcapsule decreased significantly with increasing the stirring rate up to 11,000 rpm, and then leveled off The mean particle size increased with increasing the content and molecular weight (eicosane > octadecane > hexadecane) of PCMs at the same stirring rate The mean particle sizes of microcapsules were found to decrease with increasing the NP-12 content up to 15 wt%, and thereafter increased a little It was found that the melting temperature (Tm) and crystallization temperature (Tc) of three kinds of encapsulated PCMs and their enthalpy changes (ΔHm, ΔHc) increased with increasing PCM contents The encapsulation efficiencies (Ee) of hexadecane microcapsule linearly increased with increasing the content of hexadecane It was found that the stable microcapsule containing 50 wt% of hexadecane could be obtained in this study However, Ee of octadecane and eicosane microcapsules increased with increasing PCM’s contents up to 40 wt%, and then decreased a little By considering the encapsulation efficiency, it was found that the maximum/optimum contents of octadecane and eicosane microcapsules were about 40 wt% By the dynamic thermal performance test, it was found that the maximum buffering levels of Nylon fabrics coated with hexadecane, octadecane, and eicosane microcapsules were about −24/+29°C, −36/+36°C and −40/+47°C, respectively

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, a DMSO solution of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWNT) composite films were prepared by casting a mixture of PVA and MWNT, whereby the MWNTs were dispersed by sonication.
Abstract: Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWNT) composite films were prepared by casting a DMSO solution of PVA and MWNTs, whereby the MWNTs were dispersed by sonication A significant improvement in the mechanical properties of the PVA drawn films was achieved by the addition of a small amount of MWNTs The initial modulus and the tensile strength of the PVA drawn film increased by 30% and 45% respectively, with the addition of 1 wt% MWNTs, which are close to those calculated from the rule of mixtures, and were strongly dependent upon the orientation of the PVA matrix The mechanical properties, however, were not improved with a further increase in the MWNT content The orientation of MWNTs in the composite was not well developed compared to that of the PVA matrix This result suggests that the improvement of the molecular orientation of the PVA matrix plays a major role in the increase of the mechanical properties of the drawn PVA/MWNT composite films

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, a reactive dispersal dye containing an acetoxyethylsulphone group was used for one-step and one-bath dyeing of N/P mixture fabric with good color fastness.
Abstract: Dyeing and color fastness properties of a reactive disperse dye containing an acetoxyethylsulphone group on PET, Nylon, silk and N/P fabrics were examined. The reactive disperse dye exhibited almost the same dyeing properties on PET fabric as a conventional disperse dye except the level of dye uptake. The most appropriate pH and dyeing temperature for the dyeing of Nylon fabric were 7 and 100°C respectively. The build-up on Nylon fabric was good and various color fastnesses were good to excellent due to the formation of the covalent bond. Application of the reactive disperse dye on silk fabric at pH 9 and 80°C yielded optimum color strength. The rate of dyeing on Nylon fabric was faster than that on PET fabric when both fabrics were dyed simultaneously in a dye bath, accordingly color strength of the dyed Nylon was higher. The reactive disperse dye can be applied for one-step and one-bath dyeing of N/P mixture fabric with good color fastness.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, X-ray diffraction results demonstrated that a slow cooling process leads to the thicker lamellar structures and the formation of more regular crystallites in the composites, and the incorporation of TLCP improves not only the tensile strength and flexural modulus but also the heat distortion temperature (HDT) of the PBT/TLCP composites.
Abstract: Thermotropic liquid crystal polymer (TLCP)-reinforced poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT) composites were prepared by melt processing. The improvement in the mechanical properties and the processability of the PBT/TLCP composites was attributed to the reinforcing effect by TLCP phase and its well distribution in the PBT matrix. X-ray diffraction results demonstrated that a slow cooling process leads to the thicker lamellar structures and the formation of more regular crystallites in the composites. The incorporation of TLCP improves not only the tensile strength and flexural modulus but also the heat distortion temperature (HDT) of the PBT/TLCP composites. The HDT values of the composites were dependent on TLCP content. The improvement in the HDT values of the PBT/TLCP composites may be explained in terms with the increased flexural modulus, the development of more regular crystalline structures, and the enhancement of the ability of the composites to sustain the storage modulus by TLCP phase. In addition, the simple additivity rule makes it possible to predict the HDT values of the PBT/TLCP composites.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, fine down-powder/viscose blend films were prepared and characterized for their dyeing properties and Amino acid analyses showed that amino acid component of the down were not affected during the film formation, which confirmed the changes of dye uptake and K/S value.
Abstract: Superfine down-powder/viscose blend films were prepared and characterized for their dyeing properties. Down-powder with average size of 2.56 µm were suspended in viscose dope and blend films were obtained by solution casting. When the blend films were dyed with acid dye, the dye uptake and K/S values increased with the increase in down-powder content. Amino-acid analyses showed that amino acid component of the down were not affected during the film formation, which confirmed the changes of dye uptake and K/S value.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, a core/shell structure of PVA/MMT nanocomposite microspheres was developed via a suspension polymerization approach, where a quaternary ammonium salt, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, was mixed with the MMT in the monomer phase prior to the polymerization.
Abstract: Poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc)/poly(vinyl alcohol)(PVA)/montmorillonite (MMT) clay nanocomposite microspheres with a core/shell structure have been developed via a suspension polymerization approach. In order to prepare the PVAc/MMT and PVAc/PVA/MMT nanocomposite microspheres, which are promising precursor of PVA/MMT nanocomposite microspheres, suspension polymerization of vinyl acetate with organophilic MMT and heterogeneous saponification were conducted. A quaternary ammonium salt, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, was mixed with the MMT in the monomer phase prior to the suspension polymerization. The rate of conversion decreased with an increase in MMT concentration. The incorporation of MMT into the PVAc was verified by FT-IR spectroscopy. Organic vinyl acetate monomers were intercalated into the interlayer regions of organophilic clay hosts and followed by suspension polymerization. Partially saponified PVA/MMT nanocomposite microspheres with a core/shell structure were successfully prepared by heterogeneous saponification.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fiber was grafted with casein after alkaline hydrolysis and chlorination reactions of the original fiber, and the structures and morphologies of the casein grafted fiber were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope (SEM).
Abstract: Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fiber was grafted with casein after alkaline hydrolysis and chlorination reactions of the original fiber. The structures and morphologies of the casein grafted fiber were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Moisture absorption, specific electric resistance, water retention value, and mechanical properties were also investigated. The results showed that casein was grafted onto the surface of the PAN fiber and the grafted PAN fiber presented better hygroscopicity compared with the untreated fiber. With proper tensile strength, the modified fiber could still meet the requirement for wearing. A mechanism was proposed to explain the deposit of casein on the synthetic acrylic fiber.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, a study has been made on the quantification and evaluation of fabric pilling using two-dimensional and three-dimensional hybrid imaging methods and an evaluation criterion was proposed by applying the new evaluation method to the current photographic standards.
Abstract: A study has been made on the quantification and evaluation of fabric pilling using two-dimensional and three-dimensional hybrid imaging methods. Two-dimensional imaging method was good for some samples while three-dimensional measurement method for others, according to the properties of their base fabric. Various image processing techniques as well as three-dimensional data processing algorithms were applied for the extraction of pills from measured data and a series of shape parameters have been defined for the objective evaluation of fabric pilling. An evaluation criterion that is compatible with the conventional evaluation method has been proposed by applying the new evaluation method to the current photographic standards.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: Four-way cross-linking by pentaerythritol significantly improves shape recovery rate and retention of high shape Recovery rate after repeated use compared to the one cross-linked by glycerol, a three-wayCross-linker, and difference and advantage of additional cross- linking point are discussed.
Abstract: Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) copolymers cross-linked with pentaerythritol, a four-way cross-linker, are prepared to compare their mechanical and shape memory properties with the one cross-linked by glycerol. Composition of PEG and pentaerythritol is varied to search for the one with the best mechanical and shape memory properties. The highest shape recovery rate is observed for the copolymer composed of 30 mol% PEG-200 and 2.5 mol% pentaerythritol. Four-way cross-linking by pentaerythritol significantly improves shape recovery rate and retention of high shape recovery rate after repeated use compared to the one cross-linked by glycerol, a three-way cross-linker, and difference and advantage of additional cross-linking point are discussed.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The textures of roughness and softness exhibited a linear relationship, but other subjective characteristics demonstrated a non-linear input-output relationship, and the ANFIS exhibited had higher predictive power with respect to predicting subjective characteristics.
Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of the structural properties of plain knit fabrics on the subjective perception of textures, sensibilities, and preference among consumers. This study, then, aimed to provide useful information with respect to planning and designing knitted fabrics by predicting the subjective characteristics analyzed according to their structural properties. For this purpose, we employed statistical analysis tools, such as factor and regression analysis and an adaptive-network-based fuzzy inference system(ANFIS), thereby combining the merits of fuzzy and neural networks and presupposing a non-linear relationship. Through factor analysis, we also categorized the subjective textures into ‘roughness’, ‘softness’, ‘bulkiness’ and ‘stretch-ability’ with R2=70.32 %: and categorized the sensibilities into ‘Stable/Neat’, ‘Natural/Comfortable’ and ‘Feminine/Elegant’ with R2=68.12 %. We analyzed subjective textures, sensibilities, and preference with ANFIS, assuming non-linear relationships; consequently, we were able to generate three or four fuzzy rules using wool/rayon fiber content and loop length as input data. The textures of roughness and softness exhibited a linear relationship, but other subjective characteristics demonstrated a non-linear input-output relationship. Compared with linear regression analysis, the ANFIS exhibited had higher predictive power with respect to predicting subjective characteristics.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this article, the back propagation neural network (BPNN) was combined with GA to predict the quality characteristic of a fabric, which not only enhances the efficiency of the learning algorithm but also decreases the dependency of the initial condition during the network training.
Abstract: This paper is intended to determine the optimal processing parameters applied to the dyeing procedure so that the desired color strength of a raw fabric can be achieved. Moreover, the processing parameters are also used for constructing a system to predict the fabric quality. The fabric selected is the nylon and Lycra blend. The dyestuff used for dyeing is acid dyestuff and the dyeing method is one-bath-two-section. The Taguchi quality method is applied for parameter design. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) is applied to arrange the optimal condition, significant factors and the percentage contributions. In the experiment, according to the target value, a confirmation experiment is conducted to evaluate the reliability. Furthermore, the genetic algorithm (GA) is combined with the back propagation neural network (BPNN) in order to establish the forecasting system for searching the best connecting weights of BPNN. It can be shown that this combination not only enhances the efficiency of the learning algorithm, but also decreases the dependency of the initial condition during the network training. Most of all, the robustness of the learning algorithm will be increased and the quality characteristic of fabric will be precisely predicted.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: A new method is introduced to apply spandex on woolen spinning system and core-spun yarn produced in this way has good appearance and quality by comparing with normal yarn.
Abstract: Spandex has been successfully applied on modified worsted spinning system to produce spandex core spun yarn. However it’s difficult to produce wool/spandex core-spun yarn on woolen spinning system with the same modified device because the drafting device of the two systems is quite different. A new method is introduced to apply spandex on woolen spinning system in this paper. Core-spun yarn produced in this way has good appearance and quality by comparing with normal yarn. A series of experiments were carried out to study the influence of spandex drafting ratio and yarn twist factor on tensile properties and elasticity of core-spun yarns. The results indicate that core-spun yarn with spandex drawing ratio of 2.5 and twist factor of 13.63 has highest value of tenacity and breaking elongation.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors showed that it is possible to dye polyester/cotton blend at one-bath dyeing using one kind of disperse dye containing amino groups, such as C.I. Disperse Yellow 9, C.
Abstract: The cotton fabrics were pretreated by sodium 2-(2,3-dibromopropionylamino)-5-(4,6-dichloro-1,3,5-triazinylamino)-benzenesulfonate (DBDCBS) at alkaline condition of room temperature and then dyed with four disperse dyes having amino groups (C.I. Disperse Yellow 9, C.I. Disperse Red 11, C.I. Disperse Blue 56 and C.I. Disperse Violet 1) at acidic condition of high temperature. A novel hetero-bifunctional bridge compound,DBDCBS, has two reactive groups such as dichloro-s-triazinyl group andα, β-dibromopropionylamido group. The first has reactivity towards hydroxy group of cellulosic fiber and the second shows reactivity towards amino groups of disperse dye containing amino groups. The results indicate that it is possible to dye polyester/cotton blend at one-bath dyeing using one kind of disperse dye containing amino groups. Therefore, two kinds of dyeing methods such as two-bath process one-bath dyeing and one-bath process one-bath dyeing were investigated and their dyeabilities were compared. The differences between these two methods were negligibly small so that perfect one-bath one-step dyeing of polyester/cotton blend by one kind of disperse dye was achieved.

Journal ArticleDOI
TL;DR: The tensile-recoil compressional behavior of carbon nanotube reinforced mesophase pitch (MP)-based composite carbon fibers (CNT-re-MP CFs) was investigated by using Instron and SEM.
Abstract: The tensile-recoil compressional behavior of the carbon nanotube reinforced mesophase pitch (MP)-based composite carbon fibers (CNT-re-MP CFs) was investigated by using Instron and SEM. The CNT-re-MP CFs exhibited improved, or at least equivalent, compressive strength as compared with commercial MP-based carbon fibers. Particularly, when CNT of 0.1 wt% was reinforced, the ratios of recoil compressive strengths to tensile strength of CNT-re-MPCFs were much higher (the difference is at least 10% or higher) than those for the commercial counterparts and even than those for PAN-based commercial carbon fibers. FESEM micrographs showed somewhat different fractography from that of a typical shear failure as the CNT content increased.