Influence of fabric structure on wicking in woven fabric
Continuous Assessment # 1
PAPER: Theory of Textile Structure
PAPER CODE: PE TT 601 B
Name Of The Student: ANURUPA MONDAL
Roll No: 11001423053
Registration No: 231100120221
Stream : Textile Technology
Sem : 6th Sem
Govt. College Of Engineering & Textile Technology, Serampore , Hooghly-712201
❖ Introduction :
The fabric structure, particularly the weave type and the distribution of floats within the weave,
significantly impacts the wicking ability of a woven fabric, with fabrics containing more floats
generally exhibiting faster wicking due to increased capillary channels for moisture transport;
essentially, the more open the weave structure, the better the wicking capacity.
❖ Key Points About Fabric Structure And Wicking
• Float length and distribution : A "float" is a yarn that extends over multiple interlacings
in a weave, creating larger spaces between yarns. Fabrics with longer floats or unevenly
distributed floats tend to wick faster because of the larger capillary channels formed.
• Weave type: Different weave patterns like plain weave, twill, and satin have varying degrees
of openness, impacting wicking performance. For example, a plain weave with short floats may
wick slower than a basket weave with longer floats.
• Yarn twist : The twist level of the yarn also influences wicking. Tightly twisted yarns may
impede moisture movement within the fabric, resulting in slower wicking.
• Fabric density : A denser fabric with closely packed yarns generally has lower wicking
capacity compared to a more open fabric.
❖ How Fabric Structure Affects Wicking Process:
• Capillary action : The capillary channels formed by the weave structure allow moisture to
move through the fabric via capillary action, where water molecules are drawn into the spaces
between fibers.
• Air permeability : Open weave structures with larger spaces between yarns facilitate better
air circulation, which is essential for moisture evaporation
❖ Examples Of How Weave Structure Impacts Wicking:
• Sportswear fabrics : Fabrics designed for activewear often utilize open weave structures
with high float counts to quickly wick away sweat
• Towels : Towels with a loop pile structure are designed to absorb large amounts of water due to
their high capillary action.
❖Conclusion :
• woven fabric's structure significantly impacts its wicking ability, with looser weaves containing
longer floats generally exhibiting higher wicking rates due to increased capillary action through
larger spaces between yarns, while tighter weaves with shorter floats tend to wick less effectively;
essentially, the more open the fabric structure, the better the moisture transport and
wicking performance.
❖References :
• https://www.researchgate.net/publication/288416641_Moisture_vapour_transmissio
• https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/moisture-management
