Thermal comfort performances of cellulosic socks evaluated by a foot manikin system and moisture management tester

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to investigate thermal comfort performances of socks produced from cotton and regenerated cellulosic fiber yarns by thermal resistance (by a newly designed foot thermal manikin), moisture management tester (MMT) parameters and permeability (air and water vapor) tests. Design/methodology/approach Single jersey fabrics and socks were knitted from 30 Ne yarns produced from cotton, different regenerated cellulosic fibers (viscose, modal, bamboo, micromodal, Tencel®, Tencel LF®) and their blends. Thermal resistances of the socks were compared by a newly developed thermal foot manikin in a more realistic way than measurements in fabric form. Besides air and water vapor permeability, moisture management parameters of the fabrics were tested to differentiate performances of cellulosic fibers. Findings Results show that air permeability, liquid absorption and transfer parameters measured by MMT are generally identical and better for regenerated cellulosic fabrics than cotton. Micromodal and Tencel® have better performances for liquid transfer and overall moisture management capacities are superior for bamboo and Tencel LF®. Thermal resistances of the socks are minimum for Tencel LF® having a cross-linked structure and maximum for viscose socks. Originality/value It is thought that thermal resistance measured in socks form is more realistic than fabric measurements and results of this study that can be valid for all knitted garments. Moreover, comprehensive material plan of the study is valuable for getting reliable results for regenerated cellulosic fibers that have small differences in cases of thermal resistance and liquid transfer.