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 Since
1930, TRI scientists have been studying fabric and fiber properties
for the benefit of industrial, governmental, and academic
customers. Our decades of expertise have been the foundation
for a number of R&D breakthroughs, with our research directly
impacting everything from denim jeans to athletic apparel.
With our battery of reliable tests, original methods, and
unique instrumentation, we can provide our customers with
highly valuable information for use in R&D, claims substantiation,
and product analysis.
Case
Study: Laundry Detergent
Does
this laundry detergent prevent color fading and fabric pilling?
Manufacturers
of laundry detergent hope to provide consumers with a product
that will thoroughly clean their garments while maintaining
the integrity of the fabric. Harsh additives can often cause
damage to fiber surfaces, which leads to faded and worn clothing.
In order
to determine if a detergent prevents color fading and fabric
pilling, TRI scientists would measure a laundered fabric’s:
- Color
retention and individual color parameters with the HunterLab
UltraScan™
- Dye
concentrations over the fiber cross-section with spectrophotometry
- Pilling
and surface modifications with advanced image analysis techniques
The results
of the tested samples would then be analyzed in comparison
to unwashed samples.
Case
Study: Athletic Apparel
Does
this athletic apparel allow for sufficient wicking and air
flow?
Ensuring
that fabrics used in athletic clothing will provide users
with a comfortable experience during tough conditions is very
important. A garment that can keep its wearer cool, free from
moisture, and allow the fabric to “breath” means
a better product and a happier consumer.
To examine
the wicking and air flow properties of athletic apparel, TRI
scientists would test:
- Heat
and moisture transport properties of the fabric
- Hydrophilic
versus hydrophobic multi-layer fabric interfacing and air
flow resistance with the TRI/ART™
These
examinations would then allow researchers to give manufacturers
a complete overview of their products’ wicking and air
flow properties, make recommendations for improvements, and
validate claims.
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