Plant-based biomimetic branching structures in knitted fabrics for improved comfort-related properties

The use of plant-based biomimetic branching structures in textiles can enhance their water absorption and one-way transport properties. In this study, double-layered knitted structures were developed in which two or more yarns were combined at the technical back of the fabric and separated at the technical face to emulate plant-like branching networks. Fabrics with these novel knitted structures were produced on a circular knitting machine. The water absorption and transport properties of these fabrics were measured and it was showed that plant-based knitted structures with two or more branching networks had faster water absorption and better moisture management properties than the conventional structure knitted fabrics. Other comfort-related properties, such as air resistance, were also better for the newly developed fabrics. These novel knitted fabrics should therefore have potential advantages and benefits in terms of the comfort of sportswear and functional clothing.