Effect of softener particle size on the performance of woven fabrics with differrent structure

The purpose of this thesis is to investigate the effect of the silicone base softeners with different particle size on particular functional properties of woven cotton fabrics. Twill- and plain-woven 100 % cotton fabrics which dyed in red and blue were used to enable to see how the softeners affect on various weave patterns and colours. Fabrics treated with macro-, micro- and nano-emulsion softeners were assessed for softness, bending length, colour fastness, tensile strength, crease recovery, abrasion resistance, and water repellency. The relevant results were analyzed by using one-way ANOVA. The macro emulsion softeners made the fabric softer and slightly more crease resistant compared to micro and nano ones. The micro emulsion softener provided most favorable results regarding tensile strength and water repellency for the cotton fabric. The micro and nano emulsion softeners imparted the fabric better laundry and perspiration fastness. This study, as a comprehensive research, focuses on not only influence of particle size of the silicone based softeners on physical attributes of fabric but also effect of softeners on the fabric construction properties such as weaving pattern and colour type.