Sensorial comfort characterisation of cut protective workwear made from metallic core covered yarn

Abstract

The aim of this study is to investigate the influence of metallic core-covered yarn fabrics on the tactile comfort of cut-protective clothing. Here, a 6-end satin weave is selected owing to its tight structure and reduced number of interlacings, which are advantageous for both cut protection and tactile comfort. Metallic core covered yarns with linear densities of 15, 10, and 8 Ne are produced using stainless steel filament as the core, high-performance polyethylene as the outer sheath, and polyester as the inner sheath. Nine hybrid woven fabric samples are then developed using these yarns in a 6-end satin design at three different areal weights: 150, 200, and 250 g/m², woven on a rapier loom. The low-stress mechanical properties of the samples, including tensile, shear, bending, compression, surface friction, and surface roughness, are assessed using the Kawabata Evaluation System to determine their sensory comfort characteristics. The results indicate that areal weight and bulk density exert a significant influence on the tactile properties of metallic core covered yarn fabrics used in cut-protective applications.