RADICISPANDEX CORPORATION
TECHNICAL INFORMATION BULLETIN
TYPE S-45
ELASTOMERIC FIBER TECHNOLOGY

INTRODUCTION

Traditionally, Elastane/Polyester fabrics have been dyed at no higher than 225° F because of redeniering and subsequent retractive power loss of the Elastane component. Polyester is normally dyed at 265° F in order to provide good dye penetration with efficient dye cycle times.

This study was undertaken to evaluate and demonstrate that Type S-45 High Temperature Resistant Elastane fiber is suitable for such applications and processes.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to determine the effect of high temperature dyeing on 40 denier Type S-45 Heat Resistant Elastane knitted with a 160-denier/34 filament dull round polyester into a jersey stitch circular fabric.

EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN

Fabrics containing Heat Resist 40 denier Type S-45 Elastane, 40 denier Type S-85 Elastane, and 40 denier competitor spandex were commercially dyed at 265° F for one hour into a black shade using disperse dyes. Fabrics were then post heatset at 370° F for 30 seconds. Fabric modulus was measured for comparison.

In addition, controlled laboratory experiments were performed whereby the Heat Resistant Type S-45 Elastane was pressure dyed at three different temperatures namely 230° F, 250° F and 265° F for one hour and compared with Type S-85 Elastane and several competitors spandex fibers. Fiber physical properties were measured for each dyeing condition.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Fabric modulus of Heat Resistant 40 denier Type S-45 Elastane demonstrates statistically significant higher power retention after pressure dyeing when compared to Type S-85 Elastane and competitor spandex.

Heat Resist Type S-45 Elastane exhibited noticeably higher elastic recovery properties which is essential for a functional fabric and garment.

Fiber physical properties from controlled laboratory experiments show that Heat Resistant Type S-45 Elastane retains superior tensile strength, power recovery and stretch recovery as compared to commercially available spandex fibers when dyed at 265° F.

 

 

SUMMARY

This study demonstrates the value-added attributes of Heat Resistant Type S-45 Elastane, namely excellent recovery power and preservation of elastic properties after high temperature dyeing when compared with other commercially available spandex fibers.

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