Odor Retention on Apparel Fabrics: Development of Test Methods for Sensory Detection

Abstract

A method for collecting axillary odor on nine knit fabrics was developed and odor intensity determined using a panel of assessors. Two methods, one involving paired-comparisons in the quad analysis method and the other a line scale, were investigated to determine if differences in intensity of odor retained on the fabrics varying by fiber and fabric structure could be detected. Both methods allowed detection of differences. However, the line scale method was more time-efficient and enabled a greater number of assessors on the panel, an advantage for reducing the effect of individual differences in sensitivity to axillary odorants. Recommendations for a collection method, handling and assessment method are raised.

Odor in textiles: A review of evaluation methods, fabric characteristics, and odor control technologies

“…52,53 Although it has been used less widely in research on odor emitted from clothing. McQueen et al., 32 used quad analysis which is a method based on a series of paired-comparisons resulting in a ranked order of samples. The quad analysis test procedure, 54 while more efficient than the traditional paired comparison approach, was still deemed to be more time-consuming than a line scaling procedure that was also conducted with the same type of worn fabric samples.…”

Clothing Accessory Design Based on Sensory Experience

“…Therefore, the design of apparel accessories shall focus on creating more new experiences and new feelings for consumers. For example, using new materials, new functions, or new collocations, can arouse an emotional resonance in the heart of the consumers and give them a sense of satisfaction (Mcqueen et al, 2007). To achieve these goals, we need to dig deeper into the consumers' psychological feelings and demand of the product.…”

How clean is “Clean”? A Review of Challenges in Apparel Consumer Laundering Technology and Cleaning Efficiency

“…Bowers & Chantrey [16] note that these oils are more difficult to remove from polyester than from cotton. These oily contaminations also serve as a nourishing medium on which microorganisms thrive, leading to the development of malodor in clothing [17,[19][20][21]. Malodor that originates in textiles is secondary in nature as it is a resultant product of bacterial action on sweat and human skin secretions McQueen et al [20].…”

“…These oily contaminations also serve as a nourishing medium on which microorganisms thrive, leading to the development of malodor in clothing [17,[19][20][21]. Malodor that originates in textiles is secondary in nature as it is a resultant product of bacterial action on sweat and human skin secretions McQueen et al [20]. Certain types of bacteria that live on the human skin can produce high-molecular weight, low volatility, and low-water solubility odorous compounds that accumulate on clothing fabric and can become persistent even after several wash/wear cycles [22].…”