Fiber Degradation
Fiber degradation during laundering occurs when physical forces break yarn components into microscopic particles. Through mechanical filament fragmentation, the friction of washing cycles splits synthetic yarns into microfibers that escape into wastewater streams. This phenomenon is a primary focus of environmental testing on synthetic apparel fabrics.
Testing Protocol
Laboratory wash trials use standardized gyrowash machines to simulate domestic laundering conditions under controlled agitation and temperature. The wash liquor is filtered through fine mesh screens to capture the released fragments for weighing and counting. This test measures the shed rate of the fabric under conditions of accelerated wear.
Fabric Variable
Yarn construction and finish play major roles in determining the volume of fragments generated. High-twist yarns and long filament fibers resist fragmentation much better than loose, low-twist spun yarns or brushed fleece fabrics. Finishing treatments like enzyme washes can also reduce shedding by removing loose surface fibers before the garment reaches the consumer.
Mitigation Strategy
Fabric mills use these test results to redesign textiles with tighter constructions and more durable yarn configurations. If a fabric shows high fragmentation rates during testing, the mill might apply a protective chemical binding agent or adjust the weaving tension to secure the loose fibers. These changes help brands meet sustainability guidelines and reduce the release of synthetic microfibers into marine ecosystems.
This proactive design adjustment is becoming standard practice for performance outerwear manufacturers.
