Viscose non woven fabric has gained significant popularity in various industries due to its unique properties such as softness, absorbency, and breathability. As a leading supplier of viscose non woven fabric, I often receive inquiries from customers about whether this type of fabric shrinks. In this blog post, I will delve into the factors that influence the shrinkage of viscose non woven fabric and provide insights based on scientific knowledge and practical experience.
Understanding Viscose Non Woven Fabric
Before discussing shrinkage, it's essential to understand what viscose non woven fabric is. Viscose, also known as rayon, is a semi - synthetic fiber made from cellulose, usually derived from wood pulp. Non woven fabrics are produced by bonding or interlocking fibers together rather than weaving or knitting them. Viscose non woven fabric combines the advantages of viscose fibers with the non woven manufacturing process, resulting in a versatile material used in applications like hygiene products, medical supplies, and home textiles.
Factors Affecting Shrinkage of Viscose Non Woven Fabric
1. Fiber Structure
Viscose fibers have a highly ordered molecular structure. However, they are also hydrophilic, meaning they can absorb water easily. When viscose non woven fabric comes into contact with water, the water molecules penetrate the fiber structure and cause the fibers to swell. As the fabric dries, the fibers may not return to their original shape and size, leading to shrinkage. The degree of shrinkage can vary depending on the specific manufacturing process of the viscose fibers and the fabric.
2. Manufacturing Process
The way the viscose non woven fabric is manufactured plays a crucial role in its shrinkage behavior. For example, in the Spunlace Viscose Non Woven Fabric production process, high - pressure water jets are used to entangle the fibers. If the fabric is not properly stabilized during or after the manufacturing process, it may be more prone to shrinkage. Some manufacturers use chemical treatments or heat setting to reduce the shrinkage potential of the fabric.
3. Environmental Conditions
The environmental conditions during use and storage can also affect the shrinkage of viscose non woven fabric. High humidity can cause the fabric to absorb moisture from the air, leading to swelling and potential shrinkage over time. Similarly, exposure to high temperatures, especially during washing or drying, can accelerate the shrinkage process. For instance, if the fabric is washed in hot water and then dried at a high temperature, the shrinkage rate may be higher compared to gentle washing and air - drying.
Testing for Shrinkage
To determine the shrinkage characteristics of viscose non woven fabric, standardized testing methods are available. One common method is the laundering shrinkage test. In this test, a sample of the fabric is measured before and after a specified number of washing and drying cycles according to a set procedure. The difference in dimensions is then calculated to determine the shrinkage percentage.
As a supplier, we conduct these tests regularly to ensure that our products meet the quality standards required by our customers. We also provide detailed shrinkage data to our clients so that they can make informed decisions about using our viscose non woven fabric in their applications.
Minimizing Shrinkage
If you are using viscose non woven fabric and want to minimize shrinkage, here are some practical tips:
1. Follow Care Instructions
Always follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. This may include using cold water for washing, avoiding high - temperature drying, and using a gentle cycle. By following these instructions, you can reduce the stress on the fabric and minimize shrinkage.
2. Pre - Shrink the Fabric
Some manufacturers offer pre - shrunk viscose non woven fabric. Pre - shrinking the fabric during the manufacturing process can significantly reduce the shrinkage that occurs during subsequent use. If pre - shrunk fabric is not available, you can also pre - shrink the fabric at home by washing and drying it before using it in your project.
3. Choose the Right Product
When selecting viscose non woven fabric, consider the specific requirements of your application. For example, if shrinkage is a major concern, you may want to choose a fabric that has been treated to reduce shrinkage or a Perforated Non Woven Fabric which may have different shrinkage characteristics due to its unique structure.
Applications and Shrinkage Considerations
Different applications of viscose non woven fabric have different tolerance levels for shrinkage.
1. Hygiene Products
In hygiene products such as baby wipes and feminine hygiene pads, a small amount of shrinkage may not be a significant issue as long as it does not affect the functionality of the product. However, excessive shrinkage can cause the product to become misshapen or less effective. Therefore, manufacturers of hygiene products often require viscose non woven fabric with low shrinkage rates.
2. Medical Supplies
Medical supplies like surgical gowns and wound dressings need to maintain their shape and size to ensure proper protection and functionality. Shrinkage in these applications can be a serious concern as it may compromise the integrity of the product. That's why medical - grade viscose non woven fabric is typically treated to have minimal shrinkage.
3. Home Textiles
For home textiles such as tablecloths and curtains, shrinkage can affect the appearance and fit of the product. Consumers may expect these items to retain their original size and shape after washing. Therefore, suppliers need to provide viscose non woven fabric with controlled shrinkage for home textile applications.
Our Commitment as a Supplier
As a supplier of viscose non woven fabric, we are committed to providing high - quality products with consistent shrinkage performance. We invest in advanced manufacturing technologies and quality control measures to ensure that our fabric meets the strictest standards. Our team of experts is always available to provide technical support and advice on how to handle and use our viscose non woven fabric to minimize shrinkage.
If you are in the market for viscose non woven fabric, whether it's Spunlace Viscose Non Woven Fabric, Perforated Non Woven Fabric, or Absorbent Non Woven Fabric, we invite you to contact us for a detailed discussion about your specific requirements. We can provide samples for you to test and evaluate, and work with you to find the best solution for your application.
References
- Textile Institute. "Handbook of Nonwoven Fabrics". Woodhead Publishing, 2011.
- Morton, W. E., & Hearle, J. W. S. "Physical Properties of Textile Fibres". The Textile Institute, 2008.