An attempt has been made through this research work to analyze the moisture management behaviour of four types of woven fabrics such as Cotton, Polyester/Cotton blend, Microdenier polyester, and Nylon. Also, the effect of process parameters of moisture management finish on the comfort properties of woven fabrics was studied. The optimization of comfort level by varying the process parameters of moisture management finish in order to achieve suitability for making sportswear was also done. Based on the test results, Microdenier polyester fabrics and Cotton exhibit good wicking, wetting, and water absorbency characteristics than Polyester/Cotton blend and Nylon. Comparing the 3 different process parameters, it is found that the combination of ethoxylated alcohol blend (Wetting agent) and the recipe containing amino silicon polyether copolymer and hydrophilic polymer in the ratio of 1:2 with pH of 5.5 at 60 - 70 C temperature is the optimum finishing process than the other two combinations so as to attain better comfort properties for sportswear.

Key Words: wetting, wicking, water absorbency, moisture vapour transfer, amino silicon polyether copolymer, hydrophilic polymer, ethoxylated alcohol, Microfibres.

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This article was originally presented in ATNT 2007 held on 18-20, June 2007 at Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore, India. Dr. T. Ramachandran is Professor & Head with Department of Textile Technology at PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore & M.B. Sampath is Lecturer with Department of Apparel & Fashion Technology at K.S. Rangasamy College of Technology, Tiruchengode.