Evaluation of the Structure of Monofilament PET Woven Fabrics and their UV Protection Properties

Abstract

The importance of protection against ultraviolet radiation (UV) is increasing daily. The dependence of the UV protection level on different clothes is determined by the shape and design of fabrics, and especially by their construction parameters. The fabric structure represents an important factor which is in most cases the only condition for good protection. Other possibilities to ensure good or even excellent protection, mainly by finishing treatments, can be efficient only if the fabric structure is closed enough. To determine the key parameters which contribute to the closeness of the structure and offer suitable UV protection, an analysis of monofilament woven fabric structure was made. Monofilament fabric samples used in the production of high-module screen-printing meshes, which are characterized by the excellent dimension stability of the structure, the properties of which change with varying diameters of the monofilaments and the fabric density, were chosen for this research. A broad spectrum of similar but structurally different fabrics assures referential samples are available for the evaluation of UV protection properties. In all the samples tested, the parameters of transmission and reflection were measured. Moreover, the values of absorption and the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) were calculated. The values calculated on the basis of a determined mathematical model matched well with the measured values and they can together represent the basis for successful planning of fabrics with suitable UV protection properties.