The Effect of Laundering on the Thermal and Water Transfer Properties of Mass-produced Laminated Nanofiber Web for Use in Wear

Nanofiber web produced via mass production electrospinning has many potential applications due to its large specific area, very small pore size, and high porosity. Despite such potential, the application of nanofiber web has been limited on account of its poor mechanical properties. In our previous study, the mechanical properties of laminated nanofiber web were investigated, and it was found that the mechanical properties of nanofiber web are sufficient for use as cloth in outdoor wear if a laminating process is used in its production. In this study, we focus on the use of nanofiber web as a breathable fabric. The purpose of this study is to measure the functional properties of mass-produced nanofiber web, and then to investigate any change of those functional properties that may occur as a result of laundering. The measured functional properties include the water transfer properties of waterproofness and vapor permeability as well as the thermal transfer properties of warm/cool feeling and thermal conductivity. We conclude that the maintenance of nanofiber web morphology despite repeated laundering allows for the retention of the water and thermal transfer properties of the material.