Analysis and improvement methods of breathability of polyester-spandex fabrics

1. Basic characteristics of polyester and spandex
Polyester and spandex are common synthetic fibers. Polyester fiber is produced by chemical polymerization reaction and has good durability, wrinkle resistance and shrinkage resistance, but its breathability is poor. Spandex is known for its excellent elasticity and stretchability. It can stretch to more than five times its original length and is usually used in clothing that requires elasticity and fit. Although spandex has a certain breathability, it is not good at moisture absorption and perspiration.

When these two fibers are combined, a polyester-spandex blended fabric is formed, which can provide elasticity and comfort, and increase the durability and stretchability of the fabric. The non-natural fiber characteristics of polyester limit its breathability, while spandex has excellent elasticity but poor breathability. The breathability of polyester-spandex fabrics is usually between the two, depending on the specific ratio and processing technology.

2. Breathability performance of polyester-spandex fabrics
Polyester-spandex fabrics are usually not as breathable as natural fibers (such as cotton, linen, etc.), but better than pure polyester fabrics. The fiber structure of polyester fiber is relatively tight, resulting in limited air circulation. When wearing pure polyester fabric, it is easy to feel stuffy. In contrast, polyester-spandex blended fabrics increase the elasticity and stretchability of the fabric due to the addition of spandex, which helps to improve the air circulation of the fabric. Specifically, when the fabric is stretched, the space between the fibers increases, allowing more air circulation, thereby increasing breathability.

The breathability of polyester-spandex fabrics is still relatively limited, especially in hot or humid environments, it may not absorb moisture and perspire as quickly as natural fiber fabrics, causing the wearer to feel more uncomfortable. During intense exercise, the fabric cannot completely expel heat and moisture from the body, which may cause sweat to remain on the surface of the clothing, making the body feel damp or airtight.

3. Improve breathability through special weaving processes
In order to improve the breathability of polyester-spandex fabrics, manufacturers often use different weaving and processing processes. The use of mesh fabric or air hole design can effectively improve the breathability of the fabric. This process increases the breathability of the fabric by adding a design with larger pores in the fabric, allowing air to circulate more freely. Mesh fabrics are a common choice for sportswear and fitness wear. It not only improves breathability, but also helps dissipate heat to avoid excessive heat and moisture during high-intensity exercise.

Some polyester spandex fabrics also enhance their breathability by adding microporous coatings or breathable membranes. Polyurethane coatings and microporous membranes can be used to make more breathable windproof or waterproof clothing, which can prevent external moisture from penetrating and keep internal secreted moisture from being discharged smoothly.

4. Application of polyester spandex fabrics in sportswear
Polyester spandex fabrics are often used in sportswear, fitness wear, swimwear, yoga pants and other products. These products require the fabric to have good elasticity and comfort, as well as a certain degree of breathability, especially during intense exercise, to keep the body dry and comfortable. Polyester spandex fabrics can fit the body closely through their elastic properties while providing a certain amount of air circulation space.

During exercise, the body generates a lot of heat and sweat, and traditional polyester fabrics may not be able to effectively wick moisture, causing discomfort to the wearer. Polyester-spandex blended fabrics have good breathability, especially in specially designed sports equipment, where breathability is further improved. This fabric helps reduce discomfort caused by sweat accumulation while keeping the skin surface dry.

5. How to improve the comfort of polyester-spandex fabrics
Although the breathability of polyester spandex fabric has improved, in order to further improve comfort and breathability, manufacturers can combine other high-performance fabrics, such as adding a coating with moisture-wicking function, or by adding natural fibers (such as cotton, bamboo fiber, etc.) to enhance the breathability and skin-friendliness of the fabric. By improving the weaving structure of the fabric and using lighter and thinner fabrics, the overall breathability can also be improved.