CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This claims priority to U.S. Application No. 61/329,876, filed April 30, 2010, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention generally relates to fiber blends. More particularly, the invention relates to fiber blends used for a balance of high thermal, abrasion resistance, and moisture management properties and to the yarns, fabrics, and garments made from the fiber blends.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Flame-resistant fabrics (also variously referred to as "fire-resistant," "flame- retardant," and "fire-retardant" fabrics) are fabrics that, once ignited, tend not to sustain a flame when the source of ignition is removed. Considerable research has been directed toward the development and improvement of flame-resistant fabrics for use in various products, including clothing and bedding. Flame-resistant clothing is often worn by workers involved in activities such as industrial manufacturing and processing (such as oil, gas, and steel industries), fire-fighting, electrical utility work, military work, and other endeavors that entail a significant risk of being exposed to open flame, flash fire, momentary electrical arcs, and/or molten metal splash.. Non-flame resistant work clothes can ignite and will continue to burn even after the source of ignition has been removed. Untreated natural fabrics will continue to burn until the fabric is totally consumed and non-flame resistant synthetic fabrics will burn with melting and dripping causing severe contact burns to the skin, the majority of severe and fatal burn injuries are due to the individual's clothing igniting and continuing to burn, not by the exposure itself. The abrasion resistance of protective fabrics is also an important performance property, as garments which develop failures, such as holes and rips, can compromise the protective properties of the fabric. [0004] Flame-resistant fabrics include both fabrics that are treated to be flame-resistant as well as flame-resistant fabrics made from inherently flame-resistant fibers. The former types of fabrics are not themselves flame-resistant, but are made flame-resistant by applying to the fabric a chemical composition that renders the fabric resistant to flame. These types of fabrics are susceptible to losing their flame-resistance with repeated laundering because the flame-resistant composition tends to wash out. In contrast, inherently flame-resistant fabrics do not suffer from this drawback because they are made from fibers that are themselves flame-resistant. The use of flame resistant clothing provides thermal protection at the exposure area. The level of protection typically rests in the fabric weight and composition. After the source of the ignition is removed, flame resistant garments will self-extinguish, limiting the body burn percentage.

[0005] Various types of inherently flame-resistant (FR) fibers have been developed, including modacrylic fibers (e.g., modacrylic fibers sold under the PROTEX name from Kaneka Corporation of Osaka, Japan), aramid fibers (e.g., meta-aramid fibers sold under the NOMEX name and para-aramid fibers sold under the KEVLAR name, both from E. I. Du Pont de Nemours and Company of Wilmington, Delaware), FR rayon fibers, oxidized polyacrylonitrile fibers, and others. It is common to blend one or more types of FR staple fibers with one or more other types of non-FR staple fibers to produce a fiber blend from which yarn is spun, the yarn then being knitted or woven into fabrics for various applications. In such a fiber blend, the FR fibers render the blend flame-resistant even though some fibers in the blend may themselves be non-FR fibers, because when the FR fibers combust they release non-combustible gases that tend to displace oxygen and thereby extinguish any flame.

[0006] For example, US 2005/0025963 discloses an intimate blend of staple fibers having 10 to 75 parts by weight of at least one aramid fiber, 15 to 85 parts by weight of at least one modacrylic fiber, and 5 to 30 parts by weight of at least one polyamide fiber. Another blend of staple fibers is disclosed in US 2004/0192134, including at least about 60 percent FR fibers (modacrylic and/or aramid) and up to 40 percent synthetic or natural non-FR fibers such as cotton or wool. US-B-6,787,228 discloses a yarn formed of a blend of fibers including at least about 70 percent modacrylic fibers combined with at least about 3 percent high-performance, high-energy-absorptive fibers such as aramid. [0007] ASTM F1930-99 is is a full-scale mannequin test designed to test fabrics in completed garment form in a simulated flash fire. A mannequin, with up to 122 heat sensors spaced around its body, is dressed in the test garment, and then exposed to a flash fire for a pre-determined length of time. Tests are usually conducted at heat energies of 1.8-2 cal/cm ² sec, and for durations of 2.5 to 5.0 seconds for single layer garments. Results are reported in percentage of body bum. For consistency in data and accuracy of comparison, the test method defines a standard garment size and configuration that must be used on each test.

[0008] In addition to the above-noted performance specifications of fabrics, other properties are also important if a fabric is to be practical and commercially viable, particularly for clothing. For instance, the fabric should be durable under repeated industrial launderings and should have good abrasion-resistance. Furthermore, the fabric should be comfortable to wear. Unfortunately, many of the FR blends are not comfortable under typical environmental conditions. In such cases, wearers tend to be less likely to be compliant and thereby decreasing the probability that the wearer will continue to use the garment as intended. Thus, it is beneficial if an FR fabric exhibits good moisture management properties, i.e., ability to wick away sweat and dry quickly so that the wearer does not become overheated or chilled, and/or the fabric does not irritate the wearer's skin.

[0009] There exists a need for a fiber blend that is not only fire-resistant but also provides superior moisture management properties and strength properties to ensure wearer compliance. The fiber blends, fabrics, and garments of the present invention are directed toward these, as well as other, important ends.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The invention relates generally to fiber blends and to fabrics and garments comprising the fiber blends that achieve a balance of high thermal properties and moisture management properties to provide both protection and comfort to the wearer. [0011] Accordingly, in one embodiment, the invention is directed to fiber blends, comprising:

about 30-70%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of a hydrophobic fiber component comprising at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of modacrylic, fluoropolymer, polybenzimidazole (PBI), and copolymers thereof, and combinations thereof;

about l ₅ -4 %, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of a hydrophilic fiber component comprising at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of cellulose, cellulose derivatives, wool, and copolymers thereof, and combinations thereof;

about 10-30%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of at least one structural fiber component comprising at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of aramid fiber, melamine fiber, nylon fiber, structural carbon fiber, and combinations thereof; wherein said aramid polymer is present at a level of at least about 10%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend; and

optionally, about 0.1-3% by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of at least one antistatic fiber.

[0012] In other embodiments, the invention is directed to yarns comprising the fiber blends described herein.

[0013] In other embodiments, the invention is directed to fabrics comprising the fiber blends described herein.

[0014] In yet other embodiments, the invention is directed to garments, especially outerwear, comprising the fabric formed from the fiber blends described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] As employed above and throughout the disclosure, the following terms, unless otherwise indicated, shall be understood to have the following meanings. [0016] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include the plural reference unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0017] As used herein, the term "about," when referring to a measurable value such as an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, is meant to encompass variations of ± 20%, preferably ± 10%, more preferably ± 5%, even more preferably ± 1%, and yet even more preferably ± 0.1% from the specified value, as such variations are appropriate to perform the disclosed methods.

[0018] As used herein with reference to fabric, the term "formed substantially of means that the fabric includes at least 50% by weight, based on the total weight of the fabric, preferably at least 75% by weight, based on the total weight of the fabric, and more preferably at least 95% by weight, based on the total weight of the fabric of a specific fiber blend or yarn composition.

[0019] As used herein, the term "modacrylic fiber" refers to a acrylic synthetic fiber made from a polymer comprising primarily residues of acrylonitrile, especially polymers that have between 35 to 85% acrylonitrile units, and which may be modified by other monomers. Modacrylic fibers are spun from an extensive range of copolymers of acrylonitrile. The modacrylic fiber may contain the residues of other monomers, including vinyl monomer, especially halogen-containing vinyl monomers, such as but not limited to vinyl chloride, vinylidene chloride, vinyl bromide, vinylidene bromide, and the like. The types of modacrylic fibers that can be produced within this broad category are capable of wide variation in properties, depending on their composition. Some examples of commonly available modacrylics are PROTEX™, KANEKALON™, and KANECARON™ by Kaneka Corporation. Modacrylic fibers have excellent fire retardancy performance combined with non-melt, non-drip and self-extinguishing properties. These are critically important attributes in many working environments. If sufficiently high temperatures are reached on exposure to fire or explosion, a garment made with the inventive fiber blends of the invention will carbonize by forming a protective charred barrier. This prevents propagation of flames, thereby protecting the wearer from severe burn injuries. Modacrylics have a high so-called LOI value as compared with other fibers. The LOI represents the minimum oxygen concentration of an O2/N2 mix required to sustain combustion of a material. The LOI is determined by the ASTM Test D 2862-77. Modacrylics have an LOI value preferably between about 28 and 33 while conventional polyesters have a much lower value of about 20 to 22.

[0020] As used herein, the term "fluoropolymer" refers to a fluorocarbon-based polymer with at least one, but preferably multiple, strong carbon-fluorine bonds, including, but not limited to, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), perfluoroalkoxy polymer (PFA), or fluorinated ethylene-propylene (FEP).

[0021] As used herein, the term "aramid fiber" refers to a manufactured fiber in which the fiber-forming substance is a long-chain synthetic polyamide in which at least 8 ₅ % of the amide linkages, (-CO-NH-), are attached directly to two aromatic rings, including, but not limited to, para-aramid ( -aramid) and meta-aramid (m-aramid). Examples of para-aramids include, but are not limited to, (poly(p-phenylene terephthalamide), e.g., KEVLAR® (E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company), TWARON® (Teijin Twaron BV), and TECHNORA by Teijin Company. KEVLAR is a para-aramid fiber having a very high tenacity of between 28 and 32 grams/denier and outstanding heat resistance. Examples of meta-aramids include, but are not limited to, (poly(m-phenylene isophthalamide), such as NOMEX® (E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company) and CONEX® (Teijin Twaron BV). Preferably, the structural fiber is >-aramid, microdenier />-aramid. Such structural fibers feature excellent thermal stability and are virtually non-flammable. These fibers have a very high resistance to heat and are resistant to melting, dripping and burning at a temperature of at least 700°F. Moreover, their LOI value is preferably in the range of between about 28 and about 30.

[0022] As used herein, the term "melamine fiber" is a manufactured fiber in which the fiber-forming substance is a synthetic polymer composed of at least 50% by weight of a crosslinked non-thermoplastic melamine polymer of melamine units joined by methylene and dimethylene ether linkages. In the polymerization reaction, methylol derivatives of melamine react with each other to form a three-dimensional structure. This structure is the basis for the fiber's heat stability, solvent resistance, and flame resistance.

[0023] As used herein, the term "antistatic fiber" refers to a fiber, when incorporated into a fabric or other material, eliminates or reduces static electricity. Suitable fibers include, but are not limited to, metal fibers (steel, copper or other metal), metal-plated polymeric fibers, and polymeric fibers incorporating carbon black on the surface and/or in the interior of the fiber, such as those described in US-A-3,803,4 3, US-A-4.035,441, US-A-4,107,129, and the like. Antistatic carbon fiber is a preferred antistatic fiber. One example of such conductive fiber is NEGASTAT® produced by E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, a carbon fiber comprising a carbon core of conductive carbon surrounded by non-conductive polymer cover, either nylon or polyester. Another example is RESISTAT® made Shakespeare Conductive Fibers LLC, a fiber where the fine carbon particles are embossed on the surface of a nylon filament. The yarns of both such fibers are available in a denier of at least 40. By way of example, a steel wire is available under the names BEKINOX and BEKITEX from Bekaert S.A. in a diameter as small as 0.03 ₅ millimeter. Another antistatic fiber is the product X- static made by Noble Fiber Technologies, a nylon fiber coated with a metal (silver) layer. The X-static fibers may be blended with other fibers, such as modacryhcs, in the process of yarn spinning.

[0024] As used herein, the term "structural carbon fiber" refers to fibers of about 0.005- 0.010 mm in diameter and formed primarily of carbon atoms. The carbon atoms are bonded together in microscopic crystals that are more or less aligned parallel to the long axis of the fiber. Each carbon filament is produced from a precursor polymer. Common precursor polymers include commonly rayon, polyacrylonitrile (PAN), and petroleum pitch. For synthetic polymers such as rayon or PAN, the precursor is first spun into filaments, using chemical and mechanical processes to initially align the polymer atoms in a way to enhance the final physical properties of the completed carbon fiber. After drawing or spinning, the polymer fibers are then heated to drive off non-carbon atoms (carbonization), producing the final carbon fiber. Suitable structural fibers are available from Zoltek, SGL Carbon, Fortafil, Sumitomo, and Kureha Corporation.

[0025] As used herein, the term "basis weight" refers to a measure of the weight of a fabric per unit area. Typical units include ounces per square yard and grams per square centimeter.

[0026] As used herein, the term "garment" refers to any article of clothing or clothing accessory worn by a person, including, but not limited to shirt, pants, underwear, outer wear, footwear, headwear, swimwear, belts, gloves, headbands, and wristbands. [0027] As used herein, the term "linen" (when not in relation to the hydrophilic fiber) refers to any article used to cover a worker or seating equipment used by workers, including, but not limited to sheets, blankets, upholstery covering, vehicle upholstery covering, and mattress covering.

[0028] As used herein, the term "intimate blend," when used in conjunction with a yarn, refers to a statistically random mixture of the staple fiber components in the yarn.

[0029] Accordingly, in one embodiment, the invention is directed to fiber blends, comprising:

about 30-70%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of a hydrophobic fiber component comprising at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of modacrylic, fluoropolymer, polybenzimidazole (PBI), and copolymers thereof, and combinations thereof;

about 15-45%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of a hydrophilic fiber component comprising at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of cellulose, cellulose derivatives, wool, and copolymers thereof, and combinations thereof;

about 10-30%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of at least one structural fiber component comprising at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of aramid fiber, melamine fiber, nylon fiber, structural carbon fiber, and combinations thereof; wherein said aramid fiber is present at a level of at least about 10%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend; and

optionally, about 0.1-3% by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of at least one antistatic fiber.

[0030] In certain embodiments, when the fiber blend is formed into a fabric formed substantially of said fiber blend, the fabric provides protection against second and third degree burns on less than about 35% of the wearer, when tested in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials Standard Test ASTM F 1930-2000. In preferred embodiments, fabric provides protection against second and third degree burns on less than about 25% of the wearer, when tested in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials Standard Test ASTM F 1930-2000. In more preferred embodiments, fabric provides protection against second and third degree burns on less than about 15% of the wearer, when tested in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials Standard Test ASTM F 1930-2000.

[0031] In certain embodiments, when the fiber blend is formed into a fabric formed substantially of said fiber blend, the fabric has a char length less than about 5 inches, preferably less than about 4 inches, when tested in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials Standard Test ASTM 6413.

[0032] In certain embodiments, when the fiber blend is formed into a fabric formed substantially of said fiber blend, the fabric has a water vapor transmission of at least about 1100, when tested in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials Standard Test ASTM E96 for Water Vapor Transmission, and a vertical wicking of at least about 6 cm/5 minutes, when tested in accordance with Natick Internal Method No. 4.

[0033] In certain embodiments, when the fiber blend is formed into a fabric formed substantially of said fiber blend, the fabric has a wet tear value of at least equal to or greater than a corresponding dry tear value, when tested in accordance with the American Society for Testing and Materials Standard Test ASTM D 1424 (condition 1 dry; condition 2 wet).

[0034] In certain embodiments, when the fiber blend is formed into a fabric formed substantially of said fiber blend, the fabric has a wet abrasion resistance of greater than about 4000 random abrasion cycles with a 9KPa load, and greater than about 5,000 dry random abrasion cycles with a 9KPa load using wet/dry 600 grit ultrafrne sandpaper to simulate field usage, when tested in accordance with American Society for Testing and Materials Standard Test ASTM D 4966 Abrasion Resistance of Textile Fabrics - Martindale Abrasion Test Method.

[0035] In certain embodiments, when the fiber blend is formed into a fabric formed substantially of said fiber blend, the fabric has a heat and thermal shrinkage resistance value of less than about 5%, when tested in accordance with the National Fire Prevention Association NFPA 1971 and a thermal protective performance value of at least about 5, preferably at least about 5.7 (initial) and at least about 6.7 (after 3x washing), when tested in accordance with the National Fire Prevention Association NFPA 1971 (without spacer).

[0036] The hydrophobic fiber component of the fiber blend of the invention is present at a level of about 30-70%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, and comprises at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of modacrylic, fluoropolymer, polybenzimidazole (PBI), and copolymers thereof, and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments of the fiber blend, the hydrophobic fiber component is present at about 40-60%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend. In certain other embodiments, the hydrophobic fiber component is present at about 40-50%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend. In certain embodiments of the fiber blend, the hydrophobic fiber component is modacrylic or copolymer thereof. In other embodiments, the fluoropolymer is selected from the group consisting of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), perfluoroalkoxy polymer (PFA), fluorinated ethylene-propylene (FEP), and mixtures thereof.

[0037] The hydrophilic fiber component of the fiber blend of the invention is present at a level of about 15-45%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, and comprises at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of cellulose, cellulose derivatives (such as cotton, viscose, linen, rayon, fire-resistant rayon, or a combination thereof), wool, and copolymers thereof, and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments of the fiber blend, the hydrophilic fiber component is present at about 25-40%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend. In certain other embodiments, the hydrophilic fiber component is present at about 25-35%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend. In other embodiments, the cellulose derivative is cotton, viscose, linen, rayon, or a combination thereof. A preferred hydrophilic fiber component is cotton or fire-resistant rayon, or a combination thereof.

[0038] The structural component of the fiber blend of the invention is present at a level of about 10-30%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend. The structural fiber component comprises at least one polymer selected from the group consisting of aramid fiber, melamine fiber, nylon fiber, structural carbon fiber, and combinations thereof; wherein said aramid fiber is present at a level of at least about 10%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend. In certain embodiments of the fiber blend, the structural component is present at about 20-30%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend. In certain other embodiments, the structural component is present at about 2 ₅ -30%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend. In other embodiments, the structural component is aramid fiber, such as m-aramid polymer fiber or p-aramid polymer fiber. In certain embodiments, the aramid fiber is present at a level of about 27-30%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend. In other embodiments, the structural component is a combination of nylon fiber and aramid fiber, particularly p-aramid fiber. In certain other embodiments, the structural component is a combination of nylon fiber and aramid fiber, particularly p-aramid fiber, where both components are preferably present at a level of about 10%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend.

[0039] In certain embodiments of the fiber blend, an optional antistatic fiber is present at a level of about 0.1-3%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend. In certain embodiments, the antistatic fiber is an antistatic carbon fiber.

[0040] In certain embodiments of the fiber blend,

the hydrophobic fiber component is modacrylic or a copolymer thereof;

the hydrophilic fiber component is cellulose or a cellulose derivative, or a combinations thereof; and

the structural fiber component is aramid fiber, nylon fiber, or a combination thereof.

[0041] In certain embodiments, the fiber blend is:

about 30-41%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of modacrylic and copolymers thereof;

about 30-41%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of cotton; about 27-30%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of para-aramid fiber; and

about 2%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of antistatic carbon fiber.

[0042] In certain embodiments, the fiber blend is:

about 50%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of modacrylic and copolymers thereof; about 30%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of cotton;

about 10%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of nylon fiber; and about 10%, by weight, based on the total weight of the fiber blend, of para-aramid fiber.

[0043] In another aspect, the invention is directed to yarns comprising the various fiber blends described herein, wherein said hydrophobic fiber component, said hydrophilic fiber component, said structural fiber component, and said optional antistatic fiber are intimately blended.

[0044] In another aspect, the invention is directed to fabrics formed from the yarns comprising the various blends described herein. The fabrics may be either woven or knitted. In certain embodiments, the fabric has a basis weight of less than about 8.0 ounces/square yard (OPSY). In certain other embodiments, the fabric has a basis weight of less than about 6.0 ounces/square yard (OPSY).

[0045] In some embodiments, the fabric may be formed into a garment. In certain embodiments, the fabric forms at least one outer portion of the garment because of the protection it provides. The fabric is useful in garments such as outwear, including, but not limited to coats, coveralls, overalls, shirts, and pants, and is particularly useful in firefighter turnout coats. In other embodiments, the fabric is formed into a garment, such as an undershirt, in a single tubular design to eliminate or reduce the number of seams and failure points.

[0046] In other embodiments, linen may be formed from the fabric of the invention.

[0047] The present invention is further defined in the following Examples, in which all parts and percentages are by weight, unless otherwise stated. It should be understood that these examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only. From the above discussion and these examples, one skilled in the art can ascertain the essential characteristics of this invention, and without departing from the spirit and scope thereof, can make various changes and modifications of the invention to adapt it to various usages and conditions. EXAMPLES Test Methods

[0048] The following test methods were used in the examples, unless otherwise noted. Heat and Thermal Shrinkage Resistance

[0049] This test determines the performance of fabrics when exposed to heat in an oven at ₅₀₀ °F. Observations of ignition, melting, dripping, or separation are recorded and reported for each specimen. The percent change in the width and length direction of the specimen is calculated. Results are recorded and reported as the average of three specimens.

[0050] Specimen marking and measurements are conducted in accordance with the procedure specified in AATCC 135 Dimensional Change in Automatic Home Laundering of Woven and Knit Fabrics. The specimen is suspended by metal hooks at the top and centered in the oven so that the entire specimen is not less than 50 mm from any oven surface or other specimen, and air is parallel to the plane of the material. The specimen, mounted as specified, shall be exposed in the test oven for 5 minutes at 500°F.

Flame Resistance of Textiles (Vertical) (ASTMD6413)

[0051] This test method determines the response of textiles to a standard ignition source, deriving measurement values for after-flame time, afterglow time, and char length. The vertical flame resistance, as determined by this test method, only relates to a specified flame exposure and application time. This test method maintains the specimen in a static, draft- free, vertical position and does not involve movement except that resulting from the exposure. Test Method D6413 has been adopted from Federal Test Standard No. 191A method 5903.1, which has been used for many years in acceptance testing.

[0052] Samples cut from fabric to be tested are mounted in a frame that hangs vertically from inside the flame chamber. A controlled flame is exposed to the sample for a specified period of time. After-flame time, the length of time the material continues to burn after removal of the burner, and after-glow time, the length of time the material glows after the flame extinguishes, are both recorded. Finally, the specimen is tom by use of weights and the char length, the distance from the edge of the fabric that was exposed to the flame to the end of the area affected by the flame, is measured.

Natick Internal Method No. 4 (Drying Time Test Method)

[0053] Drvins Time Test Method:

1. Fabric samples and blotting paper should be conditioned at 6 ₅ +/- ₂ % relative humidity and 21+/-1°C (70+/-2°F) for a minimum of 4 hours before testing.

2. Test three specimens from each sample. Each specimen consists of a 2" x 2" piece cut wearing gloves. The long dimension should be cut parallel to warp direction. Mark each specimen for identification as a part of the sample set.

3. Weigh the conditioned sample using a laboratory balance, accurate to 0.1 g.

4. Place 100 ml of distilled or reverse osmosis water into a 250 ml beaker.

5. Submerge one specimen in the beaker for 30 minutes. Make certain that the specimen is completely submerged under the water to insure complete wetting.

6. Remove the specimen and sandwich it between two pieces of unused blotter paper and pass it through the wringer. Leave the piece sandwiched in the wet blotter paper. Repeat this process for the remaining two specimens of the same sample.

7. Weigh the blotted specimens one at a time.

8. Record the weight as wet weight.

9. Hang each sample separately to dry in a location that is in conditions 65+/-2% relative humidity and 21+/-l°C (70+/-2°F).

10. Weigh the samples t the nearest 0.1 g every 5 minutes recording each weight, until completely dry.

11. Repeat until all the specimens return to their original dry weight. At this time, the overall drying time is calculated by averaging the dry time of all three specimens.

Natick Internal Method No. 4 (Vertical Wicking Test)

[0054] A 500 ml Erlenmeyer flasks are filled with 200 ml colored water. 6 inch by 1 inch strip are cut from the fabrics to be tested. The top edge of strip is pierced with a long, straight pen. The strip is suspended from pin, in flask filled with 200 ml colored water. At standard intervals, the strip is removed from the flask and water level on the strip is measured and recorded.

AATCC MM TS-05 Gravimetric Drying Test Modified - Advanced Fabric Drying Time Test Method

Apparatus and Reagents

[0055] Analytical balances accurate to 0.0001 gram. Each bank of 4 balances is interfaced with a computer that utilizes Labview data acquisition software for collecting test data Built- in draft shield on the balance is used to minimize drafts, with only the top open to allow for drying. Vertical specimen stand is 3 inches wide and 6 inches tall.

Sampling and Specimens

[0056] For a typical test four 2.5 x 2.5 inch square specimens are used. Two of the specimens are the "control" (reference) fabric and two are from the "test" fabric of interest. More specimens can be used to increase testing accuracy.

Conditioning

[0057] Samples are conditioned in the conditioning room at temperature of 70°F and 55% relative humidity for at least 4 hours prior to test.

Procedures

[0058] Option B: Saturated, (note: This is essentially the Natick sample preparation protocol) 1. Weigh the conditioned sample using a laboratory balance, accurate to 0.0001 g.

2. Place 10 mL of distilled water into a 25ml beaker.

3. Submerge one specimen in the beaker for 5-10 minutes. Make certain that the specimen is completely submerged under the water to insure complete wetting.

4. Remove specimen from the beaker and sandwich it between two pieced of unused AATCC blotter paper and pass it through the wringer. Leave the piece sandwiched in the wet blotters. Repeat this process for the remaining specimens of the same sample.

5. Tare the vertical specimen stand on the balance position to be used for that specimen.

6. Mount the blotted specimen on the vertical stand and then place it on the balance.

Record the wet weight of the blotted specimen.

7. Start the test by initiating data acquisition on the Lab View software. Weight readings are automatically recorded every 15 seconds by the computer.

[0059] The test is complete once the specimen weight has reached a designated stopping moisture level vs. the dry conditioned weight. The stopping moisture level is typically 1% to 2.5% for cotton blend & cotton fabrics and 0.5% for polyester. The test is ended by stopping data acquisition in Lab View.

Calculation and Interpretation

[0060] Total drying time is the time it takes the specimen to reach the stopping weight. [0061] Total water release rate ("WRR," g/min) is calculated as follows:

Total WRR = (wet specimen weight - ending specimen weight)/(total drying time) [0062] Δ WRR, total (%) is calculated from the respective total WRR values as follows:

Δ WRR, _otl , = 100 x (WRR _tesI - WRR _c ^,) WRR^

[0063] "Comfort Zone" drying time (minutes) is the time it takes the specimen's moisture content to decrease from 15% to 0.5% (polyester) or 20% to 1-1.5% (cotton). [0064] "Comfort Zone" WRR ( g/min) is calculated as follows:

Active WRR = (wet specimen weight - ending specimen weight)/("active" drying time)

[0065] Δ WRR (Comfort Zone) is calculated in the same manner as for Δ WRR(total) except using test and control WRR (Comfort Zone) values.

Moisture Vapor Transmission Test

[0066] ASTM E96 is used to measure moisture vapor transmission. A ₄ " x ₄ " fabric specimen is prepared. A cup is filled with distilled water leaving a small gap (0.7 " to 0.25") of air space between the specimen and the water. The cup is then sealed to prevent vapor loss except through the test sample. An initial weight is taken of the apparatus and then periodically weighed over time until results become linear.

Example 1:

[0067] The Air Force tiger stripe print base fabric is twill fabric with diagonal weave (7.6 oz./sq. yd.) prepared from yarn of an intimate fiber blend of 50% Protex® M modacrylic fiber/30% Pima cotton 10% nylon/ 10% Twaron® para-aramid.

Heat and Thermal Shrinkage Resistance

[0068] Six fabric specimens (3 samples as received; 3 samples after three wash cycles) were tested in accordance with NFPA 1971 (which is equivalent to the standards set forth in NFPA 2112 and NFPA 1975) to measure heat and thermal shrinkage resistance, carried out at 500°F for a test exposure time of 5 minutes.

Results:

All specimens were not charred after exposure to heat.

As received: % loss of length (2.5, 2.5, 2.5)

% loss of width (2.5, 2.5, 2.5)

After 3x washes % loss of length (2.0, 2.0, 2.0) % loss of width (2.0, 2.0, 2.0) Flame Resistance of Textiles (Vertical)

[0069] Five fabric specimens were tested, as received, in accordance with ASTM D6413 to measure flame resistance. The test results are shown in the table below:

After-Flame After-Glow Melting Drip Char Length (seconds) (seconds) (seconds) (mm)

Length Direction

Sample 1 0.0 4.0 0.0 11062

Sample 2 0.0 6.0 0.0 10567

Sample 3 0.0 4.0 0.0 8277

Sample 4 0.0 6.0 0.0 12971

Sample 5 0.0 6.0 0.0 10682

Average 0.0 5.2 0.0 106.471.8

Width Direction

Sample 1 0.0 5.06.0 0.0 10177

Sample 2 0.0 4.05.0 0.0 9181

Sample 3 0.0 7.05.0 0.0 9781

Sample 4 0.0 5.04.0 0.0 9563

Sample 5 0.0 6.05.0 0.0 11382

Average 0.0 5.45.0 0.0 99.476.8

After 25 Washing

After-Flame After-Glow Melting Drip Char Length (seconds) (seconds) (seconds) (mm)

Length Direction

Sample 1 5.0 5.0 0.0 85

Sample 2 6.0 5.0 0.0 99

Sample 3 5.0 5.0 0.0 112

Sample 4 4.0 7.0 0.0 110

Sample 5 4.0 6.0 0.0 82

Average 4.8 5.6 0.0 97.6

Width Direction

Sample 1 5.0 6.0 0.0 82

Sample 2 3.0 5.0 0.0 102

Sample 3 6.0 5.0 0.0 110

Sample 4 5.0 4.0 0.0 80

Sample 5 5.0 5.0 0.0 97

Average 4.8 5.0 0.0 94.2

ASTM F1506 Requirements

2.0 seconds None 152 mm (maximum) (maximum)

Example 2:

[0070] The Air Force tiger stripe print base fabric, a twill fabric with diagonal weave (7.58 oz./sq. yd.), was prepared from yarn of an intimate fiber blend of 50% Protex® C modacrylic fiber/30% Pima cotton/10% nylon/ 10% Twaron® para-aramid.

Heat and Thermal Shrinkage Resistance

[0071] Six fabric specimens (3 samples as received; 3 samples after three wash cycles) were tested in accordance with NFPA 1971 to measure heat and thermal shrinkage resistance, carried out at 500°F for a test exposure time of 5 minutes.

Results:

All specimens were not charred after exposure to heat.

As received: % loss of length (2.5, 2.5, 2.5)

% loss of width (2.5, 2.5, 2.5)

After 3x washes % loss of length (2.0, 2.0, 2.0)

% loss of width (2.0, 2.0, 2.0)

Air permeability

[0072] The sample was tested for air permeability in accordance with ASTM-D737. The resulting measured air permeability is 20.1 foot'/minute/foot ² .

Water vapor transmission

[0073] The sample was tested for water vapor transmission in accordance with ASTM E96 Procedure B (water method, 74.5°F, 48% relative humidity; air gap 11/16"). The resulting transmission rate measured was 1255.0 g/m ² /24 hour average.

Moisture wicking

[0074] The results of the 1" strip moisture wicking at 70°F, 65% relative humidity are shown in the table below.

Drying Test

[0075] Three 2"x2" samples were cut from the test fabrics and conditioned until a constant mass was reached. The conditioning cabinet used was an ESPEC with forced air circulation (0.4 m/s average) and set at constant temperature of 70°F +/-1°F and humidity 65%+/-3%. Samples were wetted with deionized water to a water pick-up of approximately 65%. Samples were then weighted every 5 minutes under constant conditions until the original mass was reached to approximately 1%. Baseline evaporation of standing water in the cabinet was measured to be 0.043 g/5 minutes on average. The results are shown in the following table.

Time (minutes) Wet Pick-up (%)

0 45.3

5 40.79

10 34.74 Time (minutes) Wet Pick-up (%)

15 29.81

20 23.74

25 18.68

30 13.69

35 8.75

40 4.69

45 2.33

50 1.33

55 0.71

60 0.00

Thermal and Water Vapor Resistance

[0076] Thermal and water vapor resistance under steady conditions guarded hot plate test in accordance with ISO 11092 were measured. The intrinsic insulation measured was 0.13 clo.

Example 3:

[0077] A rip stop woven fabric (5.75 oz./sq. yd.) was prepared from a yarn of an intimate fiber blend of 41% modacrylic/30% cotton/27% para-aramid/2% antistatic carbon fiber. The woven fabric was tested and the results are shown in the following table.

Test Description Test Method Target Minimum Maximum Results

Weight (oz/yd ² ) ASTM D3776 5.75 -5% +5% 5.84

Breaking strength ASTM D5034 150x110 100x60 152x115

Tear strength ASTM D1424 8x8 6x6 7.4x7.6 (Elmendorf)

Air permeability ASTM D737 35 25 50 37.6

Initial flamrnability ASTM D6413-99

(Wales/Courses)

Char length 5.0" maximum 4 5 3.6x3.6 (inches)

After flame 2.0 seconds 0 2 0 (seconds) maximum

After glow 8.0 seconds 5 8 4.7x5.2 (seconds) maximum

Melt/drip None None None

Thermal protective NFPA 1971 7.4 (initial) 7.4 Test Description Test Method Target Minimum Maximum Results performance

(no spacers)

Initial

Flame resistance ASTM F 1930- <35% 35% 34.69% (Instrumented 2000

mannequin test) (% burn - 2 ^ad and

4 seconds flame 3 ^rd degree)

exposure

Example 4:

[0078] A woven twill fabric (7.6 oz./sq. yd.) was prepared from a yarn of an intimate fiber blend of 50% modacrylic/30% cotton/10% nylon/10% para-aramid. The woven twill fabric was tested and the results are shown in the following table.

Test Description Test Method Target Minimum Maximum Results

Weight (oz/yd ² ) ASTM D3776 7.5 -5% +5% 7.58

Breaking strength ASTM D5034 115x75 100x60 115.7x75

Tear strength ASTM D1424 3x5 6x6 2.96x4.64

(Elmendorf)

Air permeability ASTM D737 20 15 25 20.1

Initial flammability ASTM D6413-99

(Wales/Courses)

Char length 5.0" maximum 4 5 4.18x3.9

(inches)

After flame 2.0 seconds 0 2 0

(seconds) maximum

After glow 8.0 seconds 5 8 5.2x5.4

(seconds) maximum

Melt drip None None None

Flammability after ASTM D6413-99

25 washes/dry after 25 home

cleaning laundering w/d

(Wales/Courses) cycles

Char length 4.0" maximum 4 5 3.8x3.7

(inches)

After flame 2.0 seconds 0 2 0

(seconds) maximum

After glow 8.0 seconds 5 8 4.8x4.8

(seconds) maximum

Melt drip None None None

Heat and thermal NFPA 1971.2000 Pass Pass shrinkage resistance ed

Thermal protective NFPA 1971

performance

(no spacers)

Initial 5.7 5.7

After 3x washing 6.7 6.7

Clo Factor ISO 11092 (under 0.13 0.13 steady state

conditions) Test Description Test Method Target Minimum Maximum Results

Flame resistance ASTM F 1930- 15% 25% 19.30% (Instrumented 2000

mannequin test) (% burn - 2 ^nd and

4 seconds flame 3 ^rd degree)

exposure

Comparative Example 5:

[0079] Navy colored, knitted fabric formed from a fiber blend of 83% modacrylic/l ₅ % cotton/2% TWARON™ para-aramid was tested in accordance with NFPA 1975 (equivalent to NFPA 1971 and NFPA 2112) (heat and thermal shrinkage resistance for station/work uniforms for fire and emergency services) (test temperature: 500°F; test exposure time: 5 minutes). Three samples were tested. Immediately after exposure specified, the specimens were removed and examined for evidence of charring, embrittlement, ignition (i.e., initiation of combustion, as set forth in ASTM D6413 flame resistance of textiles), melting and dripping or separation. Knit fabrics were pulled to original dimensions and allowed to relax for five minutes prior to measurement to determine pass or fail.

[0080] Results: All three samples failed, when evaluated after heat at 500°F. All samples exhibited smoldering, i.e., the combustion of a solid material without accompaniment of flame but generally with the production of smoke (as set forth in ASTM D6413 flame resistance of textiles). All samples remained charred and brittle after exposure to heat. The samples could not be exercised and re-measured for shrinkage.

Comparative Example 6:

[0081] Green colored, knitted fabric formed from a fiber blend of 80% PROTEX™ modacrylic/15% cotton/5% TWARON™ para-aramid was tested in accordance with NFPA 1975 (heat and thermal shrinkage resistance for station/work uniforms for fire and emergency services) (test temperature: 500°F; test exposure time: 5 minutes). Three samples were tested. Immediately after exposure specified, the specimens were removed and examined for evidence of charring, embrittlement, ignition (i.e., initiation of combustion, as set forth in ASTM D6413 flame resistance of textiles), melting and dripping or separation. Knit fabrics were pulled to original dimensions and allowed to relax for five minutes prior to measurement to determine pass or fail. [0082] Results: All three samples failed, when evaluated after heat at 500°F. All samples exhibited smoldering, i.e., the combustion of a solid material without accompaniment of flame but generally with the production of smoke (as set forth in ASTM D6413 flame resistance of textiles). All samples remained charred and brittle after exposure to heat. The samples could not be exercised and re-measured for shrinkage.

Comparative Example 7:

[0083] Green colored, knitted fabric formed from a fiber blend of 75% PROTEX C™ modacrylic/15% Pima cotton/10% BASOFIL™ melamine fiber was tested in accordance with NFPA 1975 (heat and thermal shrinkage resistance for station/work uniforms for fire and emergency services) (test temperature: 500°F; test exposure time: 5 minutes). Three samples were tested. Immediately after exposure specified, the specimens were removed and examined for evidence of charring, embrittlement, ignition (i.e., initiation of combustion, as set forth in ASTM D6413 flame resistance of textiles), melting and dripping or separation. Knit fabrics were pulled to original dimensions and allowed to relax for five minutes prior to measurement to determine pass or fail.

[0084] Results: All three samples failed, when evaluated after heat at 500°F. All samples exhibited smoldering, i.e., the combustion of a solid material without accompaniment of flame but generally with the production of smoke (as set forth in ASTM D6413 flame resistance of textiles). All samples remained charred and brittle after exposure to heat. The samples could not be exercised and re-measured for shrinkage.

Comparative Example 8:

[0085] Green colored, knitted fabric formed from a fiber blend of 80% PROTEX C™ modacrylic/15% Pima cotton/5% BASOFIL™ melamine fiber was tested in accordance with NFPA 1975 (heat and thermal shrinkage resistance for station/work uniforms for fire and emergency services) (test temperature: 500°F; test exposure time: 5 minutes). Three samples were tested. Immediately after exposure specified, the specimens were removed and examined for evidence of charring, embrittlement, ignition (i.e., initiation of combustion, as set forth in ASTM D6413 flame resistance of textiles), melting and dripping or separation. Knit fabrics were pulled to original dimensions and allowed to relax for five minutes prior to measurement to determine pass or fail.

[0086] Results: All three samples failed, when evaluated after heat at 500°F. All samples exhibited smoldering, i.e., the combustion of a solid material without accompaniment of flame but generally with the production of smoke (as set forth in ASTM D6413 flame resistance of textiles). All samples remained charred and brittle after exposure to heat. The samples could not be exercised and re-measured for shrinkage.

Comparative Example 9:

[0087] Green colored, knitted fabric formed from a fiber blend of 85% PROTEX C™ modacrylic/15% cotton was tested in accordance with NFPA 1975 (heat and thermal shrinkage resistance for station work uniforms for fire and emergency services) (test temperature: 500°F; test exposure time: 5 minutes). Three samples were tested. Immediately after exposure specified, the specimens were removed and examined for evidence of charring, embrittlement, ignition (i.e., initiation of combustion, as set forth in ASTM D6413 flame resistance of textiles), melting and dripping or separation. Knit fabrics were pulled to original dimensions and allowed to relax for five minutes prior to measurement to determine pass or fail.

[0088] Results: All three samples failed, when evaluated after heat at SOOT. All samples exhibited smoldering, i.e., the combustion of a solid material without accompaniment of flame but generally with the production of smoke (as set forth in ASTM D64i3 flame resistance of textiles). All samples remained charred and brittle after exposure to heat. The samples could not be exercised and re-measured for shrinkage.

Comparative Example 10:

[0089] Knitted fabric formed from a fiber blend of 75% PROTEX™ modacrylic/25% cotton was tested in accordance with NFPA 1971-07 (heat and thermal shrinkage resistance test; modified to use 7 inch specimens with 5 inch benchmarks). Three samples were tested as received. Immediately after exposure specified, the specimens were removed and examined for evidence of melting, dripping or separation, or ignition {i.e., initiation of combustion, as set forth in ASTM D6413 flame resistance of textiles).

[0090] Results: There was no melting, dripping, separation, or ignition of any of the samples. The samples exhibited severe color change. The dimension stability measurements were difficult to obtain due to the material gathering into small wrinkles and folds.

Example 11:

[0091] When two examples of the invention were compared with a comparative blend outside of the invention, the benefits of faster overall drying are clear, when tested in accordance with AATCC MM TS-05 Gravimetric Drying Test Modified. The results are shown in the table below.

[0092] Even a much heavier weight DRIFIRE® Example A (7.8 osy fabric) can absorb the same percentage of weight of water (2.45 oz of water) as the Comparative Example C 6.0 osy (1.82 oz of water) yet still dry faster (DRIFIRE Example A dried in 57.5 minutes versus 66.6 minutes for the Comparative Example C), which results in a higher overall water release rate. When these same fabrics are tested from a more realistic 20% by weight to 1.5% remaining moisture the blends of the invention provide the wearers with improved comfort and ability to keep the body cool by moving heat-containing sweat away from the skin, into the fabric, and drying more rapidly than the comparative blend.

Example 12:

[0093] When two examples of the invention were compared with a comparative blend outside of the invention, the benefits of improved dry and wet abrasion are apparent, when tested in accordance with ASTM D 4966. The results are shown in the table below.

[0094] Abrasion of the fabric can lead to a reduction weight, thickness, and eventually the failure of the fabric with a hole forming which exposes the wearer directly to an electric arc or fire threat. Having fabrics made of improved abrasion resistance yarns can result in longer lasting protective garments. These improved blends provide improved moisture management (water release rate) without sacrificing dry and wet abrasion resistance.

Example 13: [0095] A khaki-colored plain woven fabric (5.75 oz./sq. yd.) was prepared from a yarn of an intimate fiber blend of 40% modacrylic/31% cotton/27% para-aramid 2% antistat. The plain woven fabric was tested and the results are shown in the following table.

[0096] When ranges are used herein for physical properties, such as molecular weight, or chemical properties, such as chemical formulae, all combinations, and subcombinations of ranges specific embodiments therein are intended to be included.

[0097] The disclosures of each patent, patent application, and publication cited or described in this document are hereby incorporated herein by reference, in their entirety.

[0098] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that numerous changes and modifications can be made to the preferred embodiments of the invention and that such changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. It is, therefore, intended that the appended claims cover all such equivalent variations as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.