Fixed position varying pore structure of weft-knitted seamless fabric and heat/moisture transfer mechanism

Abstract

In this work, two functional superfine polyester yarns were selected as face yarns, three conventional yarns were selected as ground yarns, and 18 fabrics were designed by using a combination of three different plating structures. Then, through contact angle measurements, moisture management performance, thermal management performance, and breathability tests, we evaluated the effects of raw material, structure, and pore characteristics on the fabric’s hygrothermal comfort, and furthermore assessed the prioritization of the three factors using a range analysis. The results show that fabrics with face yarn of 75 D/288 F have better hydrophilicity, and fabrics with face yarn of 50 D/216 F have a better temperature control effect. The fabric with spandex/polyester covered yarn or spandex/nylon covered yarn has the best moisture transmission, and the unidirectional transfer index can reach 300%. The microstructure has a great influence on air permeability, and the surface porosity is positively correlated with air permeability. Combined with the heat and humidity division of the sports body, the development of efficient zonal positioning of heat and moisture management sports undershirts can provide certain theoretical support for the design of weft-knitted seamless sports products.