Elasticity and Shape Memory Effect of Shape Memory Fabrics

An attempt has been made in this paper to investigate the distinction between shape memory effect and the wrinkle recovery property of cotton fabrics in terms of temperature sensitivity and elasticity. Elasticity is an inherent characteristic of typical wrinkle-free fabrics, because they are suppose to recover after the release of an external force that creates wrinkling, whereas the shape memory effect of a fabric needs extra energy (heating) to allow the fabric to return to its original shape from the wrinkled appearance. An experimental investigation of elasticity of fabrics finished with conventional dimethyloldihydroxyethyleneurea (DMDHEU) and the shape memory effect of fabrics treated with shape memory emulsions under repeated laundering has also been reported. The results reveal a higher elasticity, in terms of the wrinkle recovery angle (WRA), for shape memory fabrics than those finished with DMDHEU. It was observed that the shape memory fabrics exhibit substantially better flat appearance and crease retention behavior after repeated laundering and drying. Under both hot water and air environment, the WRA of shape memory fabrics has a significant increase at 60°C showing a rapid change from 50 to 60^oC. The WRA of these fabrics shows a positive correlation to the flat appearance ratings. © 2008, SAGE Publications. All rights reserved.