Investigation of the performance properties of fabrics woven with microfilament yarns

In this thesis work, it is aimed to investigate the effects of microfilament fineness and weft sett on woven fabric performance properties for raincoat, tent, sleeping bag and wind cloth end uses. In this thesis scope, 60 woven fabric samples were produced with 1/1 Plain, 3/2 Twill and 4/1 Satin weave types, 4 different weft sett value for every weave type and 5 different filament finenesses. Breaking strength and elongation, tear strength, air permeability and water vapor permeability tests were done to determine the durability, wind resistance and breathability of these samples. The optimum weft sett and filament fineness values of every weave type were determined by multi response optimization process. Then, 5 different woven fabrics of plain weave type which have the optimum weft sett and 5 different filament fineness were treated to water repellent finish. Contact angle measurement, spray test and hydrostatic pressure test were done to establish the water repellency and water penetration of these samples and to determine the effect of filament fineness to these performances. Also, the previous performance tests were repeated to indicate the effect of water repellency finishing treatment on these performance properties. Key Words: Microfilament yarn, woven fabric, breaking strength and elongation, tear strength, air permeability, water vapor permeability, water repellency