Superabsorbent Fabrics for Moisture Management and Cooling
Moisture management Fabrics: Moisture management is a key consideration when designing garments and accessories. A number of washable superabsorbent SAF™ fabrics have been designed to offer such properties to help increase wearer comfort and manage perspiration. The fabrics can also be used in garments designed to provide evaporative cooling when worn next to the skin or over outer clothing.
Washable Moisture Management Fabric
Moisture Management Fabric: SAF™ washable fabrics provide the same high levels of absorbency as disposable SAF™ fabrics, but can be washed and re-used when protected by outer layers within final product construction. Such fabrics are ideal for a wide range of moisture management applications.
The fabrics can also be integrated into garments and accessories that provide an evaporative cooling function and have recently undergone independent testing to demonstrate a measurable cooling effect*.
Cooling Power*
The cooling power of the washable SAF™ fabrics was recorded between 9-11W, based upon the fabric in its saturated state
Cooling Time*
The cooling time for the washable SAF™ fabrics was calculated at between 7-9hours, based upon the weight loss of the fabrics after 3 hours drying
To withstand laundering, the SAF™ Washable fabric must be positioned between two outer layers, thus creating a three-layer fabric. Once in a final fabric construction, studies have indicated minimal absorbency loss of 20% after 40 wash cycles. If constructed correctly, end garments/products made using a SAF™ Washable fabric can be tumble dried.
The fabrics range from 190-450gsm and are typically a blend of SAF™ and other synthetic fibres. Anti-microbial, flame-retardant and anti-odour finishes can also be added during the manufacturing process.
Click here to view/buy trial samples of SAF™ Washable fabrics
*The core fabrics have been tested at the Hohenstein Institute for Textile Innovation. To withstand laundering, the core must be positioned between two outer layers, thus creating a three-layer fabric. This may have some impact on the above figures but this will vary depending on the outers and final product design.
SAF™ – a soft superabsorbent fibre – is the key component in all of our fabrics. SAF™ fabrics absorb water and saline rapidly with excellent retention levels. Blood plasma can also be absorbed with greater resistance to solids blocking the surface. The SAF™ content does not shed when the fabrics are being cut and shaped for use. Learn more about SAF™
Fabric selection will be influenced by the final end use, but also many other requirements –absorbency, thickness, durability, and, often most importantly, budget. An experienced development team are on hand to offer advice and help with initial fabric selection for trials. Where possible, bespoke fabrics will be designed and manufactured to meet specific requirements. Contact us for more information
