Have you ever wondered why a polyester T-shirt tends to smell worse than a cotton one after a workout? According to new research from the University of Alberta, the type of fiber that clothing is made from plays a significant role in how odors are absorbed and released. A study conducted by Rachel McQueen, a clothing and textiles scientist, along with colleagues from the University of Otago in New Zealand, aimed to investigate why some fibers are smellier than others when exposed to sweat.
Liquid Sweat and Odors
The study used a simulated sweat solution to better understand how odors transfer and are absorbed by different types of fibers. While traditional methods of testing odor retention in textiles focus on how odors pass through the air to the fabric, this study examined the transfer of odorants to fabrics using a liquid sweat solution. This approach provided a more realistic insight into how odor-causing compounds actually get into our clothes.
The research found that cellulosic fibers, such as cotton and viscose, absorbed smaller amounts of odor-causing compounds compared to synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, and wool. Sweat, which contains both water and oily compounds, interacts differently with textiles depending on their fiber chemistry. Cellulosic fibers absorb more water from sweat, while synthetic fibers like polyester are more oil-loving and absorb more odorants and oily compounds, which can later break down and cause unpleasant smells.
Analyzing the release of odor-causing compounds from various fibers soaked in the sweat solution, the study showed that cellulosic fibers initially took in lesser amounts of the compounds, while nylon and wool absorbed more but dissipated them more quickly than polyester. After 24 hours, wool and nylon had lower intensities of odorants and were more similar to cellulosic fibers. This implies that polyester may need to be washed more frequently than nylon and wool garments, which can be freshened by airing them out.
Understanding why some fibers make clothes smellier than others can help consumers make more informed choices when shopping for clothing. While polyester garments may have anti-odor claims on their labels, it is essential to consider the fiber chemistry and its interaction with odorants. Polyester, being less water-loving and more attracted to oily compounds, tends to retain odors more than cellulosic fibers like cotton. By being aware of these factors, consumers can avoid smelly clothes and make better decisions when selecting their wardrobe.
The findings of this study could also have implications for textile scientists and manufacturers. By developing polyester fibers to be more water-loving and less attracted to oily compounds, the industry could produce clothing that is less prone to retaining odors. This research highlights the importance of considering fiber chemistry in the manufacturing process to create garments that are both comfortable and odor-resistant.
The type of fiber plays a crucial role in how clothing absorbs and releases odors, especially when exposed to sweat. By understanding the science behind smelly clothes, consumers can make informed choices when selecting their wardrobe and manufacturers can develop textiles that are more odor-resistant. This research sheds light on why some clothes smell worse than others and provides valuable insights for both consumers and the textile industry.
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