Peter J. Hauser, Associate Professor
Department of Textile Engineering, Chemistry & Science,
North Carolina State University

Istanbul Technical University hosted its second International Textile Congress on April 22 – 24, 2004, in Istanbul, Turkey. Several hundred textile researchers, product developers, and company executives attended technical sessions on Fiber, Yarn and Fabric Technologies, Textile Dyeing and Finishing Technologies, Technical Textile Applications, Clothing Technologies, Fashion Trends, Textile Quality Control, and Textile Management and Marketing.

Some of the presentations are summarized below:

A report on the efforts to produce a non-fibrillating Lyocell™ fiber was presented by researchers from UMIST. Various chemical crosslinking agents were synthesized and evaluated as potential solutions to the fibrillation problem.

A presentation from NC State University outlined the major advances in weaving technology seen at the 2003 ITMA show. These advances will provide weavers with user-friendly interfaces to control looms electronically, manufacture intricate jacquard designs at high speeds, inspect fabrics on loom, and use optical and laser detection systems to detect warp breaks.

Researchers from Auburn University discussed a computer-based system that
utilizes geometric models to simulate a woven textile. The system enables input parameters for fibers and yarns for warp and filling, allows fabric design, and predicts the physical and forming properties of the fabric.

Laser produced nip formation in textured yarn was discussed by researchers from Loughborough University. A pulse laser was used to fuse textured yarn filaments at discrete points at regular intervals along the yarn length. The pulse frequency and intensity were varied to produce a range of operating conditions for polyester and nylon textured yarns.

Cooperative research between Istanbul Technical University and NC State University has resulted in a hydrogen peroxide bleaching system for cotton that contains a cationic peracid precursor. The use of this “peroxide activator” allows reduction in bleaching time and temperature, yielding equivalent fabric whiteness with less fiber damage.

The Italian textile machinery manufacturer Biancalani presented results of new developments in the use of their air processing system for finishing fabrics in rope form. Processes such as bio-polishing, knit compaction, and artificial leather processing can be enhanced and special effects generated.

The use of instruments to measure the color of textiles is limited in the case of carpets since the pile yarns present different reflectances in cross-section and longitudinal directions. Researchers from Amirkabir University and the University of Technology, Isfahan, reported on the development of a mathematical method to compensate for pile yarn orientation during instrumental measurement.

A report on the heat and moisture transport in garments was presented by researchers from the Technical University of Liberec and the Technical University of Dresden. Designing garments to allow the maximum amount of free convection allows significant increases in thermophysiological comfort experienced by the wearer.

Researchers from the University of Ege reported on a study of sun-protective clothing. The effects of color, fiber content, fabric construction, and washing procedures on the ultraviolet protection provided were examined.

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Last Site Revision:
May 5, 2004