3-D images of fabric ‘sandwich’ can help measure textile frictionTo quantify exactly how
3-D images of fabric ‘sandwich’ can help measure textile frictionTo quantify exactly how itchy a wool sweater might be when worn directly against the skin, or how soft a blanket spread on your bed can be, North Carolina State University researchers developed a method of measuring fabric’s roughness using 3-D imaging.In the journal ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, researchers reported on a series of experiments in which they used an imaging tool—X-ray micro-computed tomography—to take 3-D images of the surface of fabric in order to calculate the surface geometry, and measure the impact on friction. Their method can quantify skin-textile interface at a microscale without destroying the fabric.“We need ways to definitively measure friction to help the textile industry tune fabrics to be suitable for specific applications,” said the study’s corresponding author Kavita Mathur, associate professor of textile and apparel, technology and management at NC State. “We have textiles for apparel, for athletes, that are worn by patients, and that go into furnishings. Friction can be anywhere—not just against the skin. Ultimately, we envision using this method to ensure fabrics are not too abrasive for their end-uses, whether they are destined to end up on a hospital bed where irritation can lead to bed sores, or on an athlete or into furnishings.”Read more. -- source link
#materials science#science#textiles#materials characterization#friction