Studies on Abrasion of Sewing Threads with Scanning Electron Microscopy

Abstract

The Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) was used to probe into the surface structure of three typical sewing threads after abrasion, and an attempt was made to support the visual evidence with the physical data obtained experimentally. Coarse and medium fine yarns showed more hairy appearance on abrasion. Bruising and smoothening effects were rather marked in coarse thread. Twisting of fibers and development of longitudinal cracks occurred in medium fine yam. In case of fine yam, fiber surface damage was not discernible; however, pulled out fibers clustered into a group. Visual evidence of the SEM supports the established view that the extent of damage due to abrasion depends on the size of the yarn, the twist, and the number of plies.