Investigation of Performance Properties of Denim Fabrics Containing Cotton/Sustans® Blend Rotor Yarn

Abstract

It is common to use open-end rotor yarn in the production of denim fabric, which is preferred by people of all ages and social status due to its durability and comfort. Recently, the demand for stretch denim fabrics that can take the body's shape due to the elastic fibers in its structure has been increasing. However, producing elastane-containing yarns in the rotor spinning system is not as practical as ring spinning. For this reason, this study aimed to use the staple Sustans® fibers with high elasticity in the rotor spinning system together with cotton fibers and reflect the good elasticity and elongation properties of Sustans® fibers to the rotor yarns and denim fabrics. In the study, the staple Sustans® fibers based on PTT (Polytrimethylene Terephthalate) were spun with cotton fibers in the rotor spinning system. Then denim fabrics were produced using these yarns in the weft. Later, strength (breaking and tear), dimensional stability (dimensional change after washing, fabric elasticity and growth), abrasion resistance and pilling tests were applied to the produced denim fabrics. Thus, the effects of using Sustans® fibers on the strength, dimensional stability, abrasion and pilling properties of denim fabrics were analyzed. As a result of the study, the dimensional change and growth values after washing were developed by using Sustans®. Although good dimensional stability was observed in the samples, the degree of elasticity was lower than expected. The use of Sustans® at rates of 50% and above improved the pilling values of the fabrics. In addition, it has been determined that the use of Sustans® in terms of abrasion resistance has a more positive effect at the end of long wear periods.