Durability Assessment of Elastolefin-Based Workwear Fabrics

Textile fabrics intended for use in protective clothing, workwear, and uniforms are subjected to repeated high-temperature industrial washing and drying processes. It is evident that due to the rigorous nature of the prescribed preservation conditions, textiles that are currently utilised for this purpose do not contain elastomeric yarns: a consequence of their suboptimal thermal stability. However, elastomers enable garments to better fit the wearer’s figure and enhance safety and comfort during occupational activities. Currently, no investigations of EOL (elastolefin) yarn elastic durability under commercial maintenance conditions have been conducted. The publication evaluates the elastic properties and pilling resistance of fabrics with EOL-core weft yarns before and after repeated industrial washing under conditions that are typical of rental use. Additionally, an analysis using SEM, FTIR spectroscopy, thermal and thermogravimetric techniques of core-yarns and the core itself was performed. The tested fabrics retained a high elasticity index, even after 100 industrial washing cycles, as confirmed by instrumental analysis. In conclusion, fabrics with EOL-core yarns can be used for garments that are subjected to intensive maintenance in industrial washing conditions without losing their elastic properties.