The static electricity generation of mulberry silk and bamboo fiber stretch shirt fabric is influenced by fiber properties, ambient humidity, and processing techniques, necessitating a comprehensive, multi-dimensional analysis of its static behavior and control mechanisms.
Mulberry silk, as a natural protein fiber, possesses hydrophilic properties due to the amino and carboxyl groups in its molecular structure. This allows it to absorb ambient moisture, forming a conductive layer and reducing charge accumulation. Bamboo fiber, due to its hollow structure and porous nature, possesses enhanced moisture absorption capacity, rapidly absorbing and dispersing perspiration, further suppressing static electricity generation. Combining these two fibers significantly enhances the overall hygroscopicity of the fabric. In an environment with suitable humidity, moisture on the fiber surface forms a continuous conductive pathway, allowing static charges to dissipate quickly and reducing the likelihood of static electricity generation.
Ambient humidity is a key factor influencing static electricity generation. In dry environments, the number of water molecules in the air decreases, reducing the fiber's ability to absorb moisture, resulting in increased surface resistance and difficulty in charge flow, leading to static electricity accumulation. Although mulberry silk and bamboo fiber stretch shirt fabrics naturally have superior hygroscopicity compared to synthetic fibers, they may still generate slight static electricity due to low humidity. In high humidity environments, fibers absorb sufficient moisture, increasing their conductivity and significantly reducing static electricity. Therefore, during the dry autumn and winter seasons, or in air-conditioned rooms, it's important to maintain humidity using a humidifier or other device to optimize the fabric's antistatic properties.
The impact of processing on static electricity primarily manifests itself in fiber treatment and fabric structure. During degumming and dyeing processes, improper chemical reagents or high-temperature treatment can damage the fiber's surface structure, reducing its moisture absorption and increasing the risk of static electricity. Damage to bamboo fiber during opening and carding, resulting in increased surface roughness, can also exacerbate triboelectric charging. Furthermore, while the addition of stretch fibers (such as spandex) to fabrics can enhance comfort, poor integration with natural fibers can lead to localized static electricity due to differences in the coefficient of friction. Therefore, optimizing the spinning process, controlling the fiber ratio, and applying antistatic finishing agents are crucial to reducing static electricity during processing.
Compared to other fibers, mulberry silk and bamboo fiber stretch shirt fabric exhibit significant advantages in antistatic properties. Synthetic fibers (such as polyester and nylon) have poor moisture absorption and are prone to generating strong static electricity in dry environments, leading to problems such as dust attraction and skin adhesion. While cotton fibers have good moisture absorption, they lack elasticity and are unable to meet the shape-shifting requirements of shirts. Stretch fabrics made from mulberry silk and bamboo fibers combine the comfort of natural fibers with the stretchability of stretch fibers. They also reduce static electricity through synergistic effects, making them more suitable for situations involving frequent movement.
In daily use, simple methods can reduce static electricity. For example, gently wiping the surface of the fabric with a damp cloth before wearing or using an antistatic spray can temporarily increase conductivity. When washing, use a neutral detergent and avoid using softeners (some softeners may contain residual chemicals that can affect the fiber's moisture absorption). Air-dry the fabric to prevent high-temperature drying that can harden the fibers. When storing, hang the shirt in a well-ventilated area and avoid mixing it with synthetic clothing to reduce the chance of friction-induced static electricity.
Industry trends indicate that antistatic finishing technology is continuously evolving. A new nano-coating forms a conductive film on the fiber surface through physical adsorption, providing durable static suppression without compromising the fabric's breathability. Research and development of bio-based antistatic agents, which are derived from natural substances and are more environmentally friendly, have also made progress. Application of these technologies to mulberry silk and bamboo fiber stretch shirt fabric will further enhance its functionality and market competitiveness.
