Dergi makalesi Açık Erişim

Regenerated cellulosic fabrics having adaptive breathability and sweat transfer functions via temperature-moisture responsive nanocomposite treatment

2025    Korkmaz Memis, Nazife; Kaplan, Sibel; Kertmen, Mehmet

In recent years, adaptive thermal-moisture management textiles, which are commonly used as sports and leisure clothing materials, have attracted attention for enabling dynamic comfort and considering sustainability components with the advantages of multifunctionality, energy saving, and low chemical consumption. Thus, temperature-moisture dual-responsive shape memory materials changing features according to the multiple stimuli of the ambient environment and body microenvironments can be used for developing passive smart textiles. Herein, a temperature-moisture responsive shape memory nanocomposite finishing material based on temperature-responsive polyurethane and hydrophilic cellulose nanowhisker particles was applied to regenerated cellulosic knitted fabrics (cotton, recycled cotton, viscose, modal, lyocell, bamboo) by using an eco-friendly process. The minimum polymer concentration sufficient for the required dynamic breathability and absorbency properties was determined with optimization, considering an acceptable fabric hand. In addition to a realistic and comprehensive test plan for adaptive permeability and liquid transfer/absorption characteristics, morphological, chemical, physical, mechanical, and washing fastness of the treated fabrics were determined. According to the results, nanocomposite-treated fabrics, especially modal, and viscose not only exhibited adaptive breathability, sweat absorption, and transfer capability but also acceptable bending rigidity and higher mechanical properties. The mentioned results make these fabrics good candidates for inner layers of various sports and protective clothing that enable dryness, hence comfort under different conditions.