Mechanistic Role of Yarn and Fabric Structure in Determining Tear Resistance of Woven Cloth

The goal of this study is to acquire an understanding of the manner in which cotton yam properties (including structure) contribute to the tear resistance of woven fabrics as measured by the tongue tear test. Our approach to this overall goal is a three step process. First, we examined samples during and after failure to identify the important phenomena that contribute to tearing strength, termed the subcomponents of tear. Next, we designed tests to observe the isolated contributions of pull-in (of yams into the del zone), pull-ahead (of yams towards the untorn fabric), and yam tenacity. Finally, in Part II of this paper, we will describe a model based on a mechanical spring analogy that will allow us to predict load-displacement responses of woven fabrics being torn.