Preparation and properties of biodegradable directional water transport composite fabrics

Abstract

Moisture (i.e., sweat) management is essential for maintaining human physiological comfort. But conventional fabrics and moisture‐absorbent and quick‐drying fabrics cannot simultaneously possess directional water transport (DWT) functionality and environmental protection characteristics, while also causing a sticky sensation on the skin when worn. Herein, the polylactic acid (PLA) electrospun membranes were deposited on the PLA side of a double‐yarn weft‐knitted fabric (hydrophobic PLA filament and hydrophilic cotton yarn) with asymmetric wettability, and green composite fabrics with papillary structures and unidirectional moisture transport capability were obtained using hot‐press. The properties of these composite fabrics were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, moisture management testing, dynamic scanning calorimetry, water contact angle (WCA), and water permeability. The results showed that the wettability gradient difference between the two sides of the fabric increased, enhancing the unidirectional moisture transport capability. The optimal performance composite fabric achieved an accumulative one‐way transport capacity of 1285% and an overall moisture management capacity of 0.693. Additionally, the WCA on the hydrophobic side measured 150°, remaining at 146.8° after two washes. Overall, this composite fabric strikes a balance between biodegradability and exceptional DWT performance, rendering it an environmentally friendly and recyclable choice for moisture‐wicking and quick‐drying apparel applications.Highlights Created PLA/cotton‐knitted fabric with asymmetric wettability. Hydrophobic PLA membrane deposited on fabric surface using electrospinning. Green composite fabrics with excellent DWT functionality were made by hot‐press. Best composite fabric: R‐value 1285.6%, OMMC 0.696, WCA 150°. Best composite fabric retains WCA of 146.8° after two washes.