Investigation into the Strength Properties of Plain Cotton Fabrics after Water Immersion for Upcycling Textiles

Abstract This study utilized SEM to examine the fiber structure of cotton stock fabrics and tested their durability based on ISO standards. Two types of cotton stock fabrics were evaluated: natural-colored (162 cm width, 120.8 g/m2 weight, 281/10 in × 252/10 in density) and black-colored (157 cm width, 136.1 g/m2 weight, 482/10 in × 210/10 in density). Prolonged water immersion caused surface yarns to loosen, fibers to expand, and the cross-sectional area to increase. Residual pulp and impurities on the fabric adhered to fibers. After 27 days, fiber looseness peaked, leading to complete breakdown after 30 days. Natural-colored fabric experienced significant weft strength loss within 12 days, while black fabric showed slightly higher weft strength loss after 36 days. Color changes were prominent in natural-colored fabric during the initial 21 days, while black fabric displayed noticeable changes after 12 days of immersion.