Classification of synthetic polyurethane leather by mechanical properties according to consumers’ preference for fashion items

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the effect of mechanical properties on consumers’ preference for fashion leather items, and to classify them by the mechanical properties of synthetic leather. Mechanical properties were measured by the KES-FB system and a survey of experts was conducted with a preference evaluation for various items using 15 types of synthetic polyurethane leather. More easily transformable and lighter leathers are preferred for clothing, while the leathers that have better dimensional stability are preferred for purses, bags, shoes, and boots, and those with smooth surface are preferred for furniture. Furthermore, synthetic leathers were classified into three clusters by mechanical properties. There was no difference between clusters in preference for non-clothing item, because no perception of various mechanical properties was caused by the structural characteristics of each items by design. On the other hand, for clothing items, consumers’ preferences are significantly affected by mechanical properties.