Abstract

Spandex-blended viscose fiber used in apparel is a fiber that has the benefits of breathability, fit, comfort, and elasticity. Research on the mechanical and physical properties of viscose fiber blended with spandex helps in the selection of woven fabrics for the production of Denim fabric, as a suitable raw material for jeans. The present study investigates how some physical and mechanical properties, like fiber density, post-washing fiber size, tensile strength, tear strength, breathability, and so on, vary under different washing conditions.

Spandex is highly elastic and is soluble in extremely high solvents. Spandex is not susceptible to hydrolysis effects during normal laundering and hand washing or laundering processes that do not use the solvents commonly used in dry cleaning such as perchloroethylene or benzene. Spandex fibers have resistance to low concentrations of acid, alkali and oxidizers. However, they lose their elasticity when treated with acids and alkalis of high concentrations for a long time. Rapid loss in elasticity depends on temperature. Elastic spandex fibers have resistance to the active chlorine in the bathtub water.

Viscose which is a man-made fiber and is derived from cellulose rayon (man-made silk from wood) belongs to a group of regenerated fibers to create fibers used as textile materials at affordable prices. Viscose is produced via the wet spinning method in a coagulation bath. Viscose fiber has a lower tensile strength under wet conditions than under dry conditions. Besides, it has a higher elongation under wet conditions.