13.10.
23 TEX 2207: Textile Testing and Quality Control-I MR
Moisture
Moisture:
Moisture refers to the presence of water in a substance or material. It can exist in various
forms, including liquid, solid, or vapor, depending on temperature and environmental
conditions. Moisture is essential for many natural processes and has significant effects on
various materials and environments.
Moisture Regain:
Moisture regain is defined as the weight of water in a material as a percentage of the oven-
dry weight. Moisture regains, and moisture content is essential in the textile industry.
Moisture regains and moisture content has also defined the humidity.
Let, Oven dry weight of a material = D
Weight of water in this material = W
………………………………. W
Moisture regain, R = ……. X 100 ……. (1)
……………………………….. D
Moisture Content:
Moisture content is defined as the weight of water in a material express as a percentage of
the total weight of the material.
…………………………………. W
Moisture content, C = ……….. X 100 …………… (2)
……………………………….. W+D
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13.10.23 TEX 2207: Textile Testing and Quality Control-I MR
Relation between moisture regain and moisture content:
From equation (1) we get,
………W
D = …… X 100
………R
Putting the value of D in equation (2) we get,
………………………..W
C = ……………………………… X 100
……..W + { (W/R) X 100}
……………………W
=> C = ………………………..
……………..W (1+100/R)
…………………..100
=> C = ……………………..
…………….1 + 100/R
…………….100R
=> C = …………… …………………(3)
……………R+100
Some examples of moisture regain of textile fibers:
Cotton: Cotton has a relatively high moisture regain, typically around 8-10%. This means
that cotton fibers can absorb a significant amount of moisture from the environment.
Wool: Wool is known for its high moisture-regaining capacity. It can absorb up to 30-35% of
its weight in moisture, making it an excellent natural insulator.
Silk: Silk has a moisture regain of about 11-12%, which means it can absorb a moderate
amount of moisture.
Flax (Linen): Linen fibers have a moisture regain of approximately 8-12%.
Rayon: Rayon fibers have a moisture regain of about 11-13%.
Nylon: Nylon is a synthetic fiber and typically has a lower moisture regain compared to
natural fibers. It's around 3-4%.
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13.10.23 TEX 2207: Textile Testing and Quality Control-I MR
Polyester: Polyester, another synthetic fiber, has a relatively, low moisture regain, usually
around 0.4-0.6%.
Acrylic: Acrylic fibers also have a low moisture regain, similar to polyester, typically around
0.2-0.6%.
Necessity/Importance of moisture regain in textile processing
Moisture regain is a critical parameter in textile processing for several reasons:
Yarn Spinning: During the spinning process, fibers are twisted to form yarns. Moisture
regain is essential in maintaining the proper tension and twist levels. Yarns with the correct
moisture content are more consistent and less prone to breakage during spinning.
Weaving and Knitting: In the weaving and knitting processes, moisture regain affects the
behavior of yarns and fabrics. Proper moisture content ensures that the yarns have the right
degree of pliability and strength, leading to improved weaving and knitting efficiency.
Dyeing and Printing: Moisture regain is crucial for dyeing and printing operations. Textiles
need to be at the right moisture content to achieve uniform color absorption and fixation.
Deviations in moisture regain can result in uneven dyeing or printing, leading to quality
issues.
Sizing: Sizing is the application of a protective starch or adhesive to yarns before weaving.
Proper moisture regain of sized yarns is essential to prevent excessive breakage during
weaving. It also helps the sizing material adhere to the yarns effectively.
Shrinkage Control: Many textiles tend to shrink when exposed to moisture. Understanding
moisture regain is crucial for controlling and predicting shrinkage, ensuring that finished
products meet size specifications.
Quality Control: Moisture regain is a key parameter in quality control processes. It helps
ensure that the textiles being produced meet specific moisture-related standards, such as
those related to moisture content, shrinkage, and colorfastness.
Comfort and Performance: For textiles intended for clothing and apparel, moisture regain is
vital for comfort and performance. Fabrics with the right moisture regain properties are
more breathable and comfortable to wear in various environmental conditions.
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13.10.23 TEX 2207: Textile Testing and Quality Control-I MR
Environmental Adaptability: Textiles are used in diverse environments, and their moisture
regain properties can impact their performance. Fabrics designed for outdoor use, for
example, need to be able to manage moisture effectively in wet or humid conditions.
Efficiency: Proper moisture control in textile processing can lead to improved
manufacturing efficiency. It reduces the likelihood of production delays, defects, and
rejections, saving time and resources.
Consumer Satisfaction: Ultimately, the moisture regain of textile products can significantly
affect consumer satisfaction. Textiles that perform well in terms of comfort, moisture
management, and durability are more likely to meet customer expectations.
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