Using a washing simulator (gyrowash), a research team led by Alice Hazlehurst, a PhD researcher in the university's department of arts, humanities and cultural design, tested different fiber densities differ in non-knitted and knitted fibers, and compare the amount of microfibers they release when washed.
Non-knitted polyester releases more small fibers than non-knitted cotton, but the same amount of fibers is released when knitting polyester. This shows that polyester is less damaged than cotton during the knitting process, according to a university press release.
According to researchers from the University of Leeds in the UK, modifying fiber composition and spinning systems can reduce the release of microfibers from textile materials and their harmful impact on the environment. Non-knitted polyester releases more small fibers than non-knitted cotton, but the same amount of fibers is released when knitting polyester.
Researchers suggest that release of microfibers in tightly knitted fabrics during washing has been reduced, but manufacturers should consider fiber flyaways – visible 'fluff' that is released from fabrics when they are knitted in a factory – this percentage is higher when the garment is knitted tightly.
Vortex solar fibers—in which the fibers are twisted using air currents in a vortex—have lower microfiber escape than ring-spun fibers—in which the fibers are twisted in a metal ring. Ring spun yarns tend to be more 'hairy' than swirl spun yarns, which has been shown to increase microfibre release when washed.
Fiber2 Fashion News Desk (DS)
