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Influence of Loop Length and Fiber Composition on Comfort and Performance Properties of Single Jersey Knitted Fabrics

Simran*1, Shailendra Singh*2

Guest Faculty at department of Textile Technology Government polytechnic Lucknow*1 Guest Faculty at department of Textile Technology Government polytechnic Bijnaur*2

Abstract:

This study investigates how loop length and yarn composition (polyester/cotton, polyester/polypropylene, polyester/lycra blends) affect the comfort and performance of single jersey knit fabrics. Single-jersey fabrics were knitted at three loop lengths (loose, medium, tight) using each yarn blend. Key physical properties (fabric weight/GSM, thickness, abrasion resistance, air permeability, water-vapor permeability, and moisture management indices) were measured for all samples. Tighter loop lengths consistently produced heavier, thinner, and more compact fabrics, whereas looser loops yielded more open, breathable structures. Polyester/cotton blends had the highest GSM and air permeability, while polyester/polypropylene blends showed the greatest thickness (loft) and highest water-vapor transmission. Polyester/lycra fabrics (with elastic spandex) exhibited enhanced stretch and abrasion resistance under tight loops. Overall, loop length was a dominant factor: reducing loop length (tighter knitting) increased fabric density and abrasion resistance but reduced porosity, air flow, and moisture transport. Fiber composition also played a significant role: hydrophobic polypropylene lowered moisture regain and increased vapor permeability, whereas hydrophilic cotton increased GSM and air flow. These findings highlight the trade- offs in knit design: maximizing strength and compactness (tight loops, dense yarn) versus maximizing breathability and moisture wicking (loose loops, hydrophilic yarns). The results provide design guidelines for engineers optimizing single jersey textiles for specific comfort needs. Keywords: Single jersey knit; loop length; fiber blend; cotton; polypropylene; lycra (spandex); comfort; air permeability; moisture management.

Keywords

Single jersey knitted fabric; Loop length; Fiber composition; Polyester/cotton; Polyester/polypropylene; Polyester/lycra; Air permeability; Moisture management; Thermal comfort.