Development of the Warp Knitted Spacer Fabrics for Cushion Applications

Abstract

Polyurethane (PU) foam is a common material used in seats, sofas and mattresses, etc. However, the use of PU foam presents some problems concerning comfort and recycling. Compared with PU foam, warp knitted spacer fabrics can solve these problems. This paper presents work in the development of the warp knitted spacer fabrics for cushion application. Three kinds of the properties, i.e., pressure distribution, air permeability, and heat resistance of the fabrics developed are evaluated and compared with those of the PU foam. The results show that the warp knitted spacer fabrics have better pressure relief properties, higher air permeability, and lower heat resistance than PU foam, and thus could be used to substitute PU foam, especially in the case where the comfort and recycle are highly required.