Textile particle generation: test method for nonwovens modified for use on woven materials

Abstract

Considering that textile dust can cause many problems in specific environments, there is a need for low particle release textiles. Usually this means using disposable textiles, but in an effort to reduce the amount of waste that such products generate, the aim of our research was to investigate possibilities of using multiple-use fabrics as an alternative. For the purposes of this study, a standard method for testing particle release from nonwovens had to be adapted in order to acquire reliable data on testing woven fabrics. Statistical analysis showed considerably more precise results after prolongation of testing time from 5 min (standardized) to 30 min (modified). Examination of particle release from cotton fabric after multiple washing and drying cycles showed increase in smaller particles count (<1 µm) but also decrease of larger particles (>5 µm) after 10 cycles.