Factors Influencing the Daylight Photodegradation of Nylon 66, Nylon 6, and Polyester in Commercial Fabrics

Abstract

Nylon 66, nylon 6, antistatic nylon 66, and polyester yarns of various lusters were made into commercial warp-knitted fabrics using some dyes that retarded and others that promoted photodegradation. These fabrics, together with undyed ones, were exposed under glass and by direct weather in Florida to determine the relative contribution of the various factors to reduced fabric performance on exposure to light. The interaction of seasonal daylight changes with the fiber and dye variants was also investigated. Strength retention and abrasion resistance were used to characterize fabric deterioration. Reasons for the differences found are postulated.