Mechanisms of moisture absorption
- Moisture absorption in textile fibers occurs through the interaction of water molecules with polar groups within the structure (e.g. OH, -COOH).
- In ordered (crystalline) parts of the structure, these polar groups are not attached but in disordered (amorphous) regions there can be very free groups which can act as hooks with which the water molecules can link through hydrogen bonding.
- Thus the absorption of moisture takes place in the amorphous regions only.
Atmospheric Condition And Relative Humidity
- Among other thing , the regain of a textile material depends upon the amount of moisture present in the surrounding air. The dampness, of the atmosphere can be described in terms of humidity either absolute humidity or relative humidity.