Static Generation and Suppression in Staple Fiber Yarns

Abstract

JAMES, BRADLEY ADAM. Static Generation and Suppression in Staple Fiber Yarns. (Under the direction of Dr. William Oxenham and Dr. Abdel-Fattah Seyam).

Triboelectric effects have been studied since before the times of Christ. In more modern times, the evidence of danger and damage inherent with this phenomenon has become apparent. Much is known and theorized upon about how static electricity is generated, yet there is still much to learn. One of the most widely experienced effects of static buildup is caused by clothing or textile products. Industries worldwide have turned to the textiles markets to develop solutions on combating this nascence. From antistatic chemical treatments to conductive fibers added into processing, many innovative new solutions are still being developed. In order to develop more effective solutions, it is critical to understand more about the triboelectric phenomenon as it relates to the particular materials and substrates in question. Spun yarns are the most widely produced yarns for apparel in the world and are often used in conjunction with antistatic treatments. This research is intended to focus on better understanding some of the variables that affect static buildup and propagation within staple spun yarns. It will specifically focus on understanding the effects of blend, yarn structure, temperature, humidity, and tension as well as variables associated within these factors, such as hairiness and uniformity. This understanding will be developed based on statistically based trails utilizing highly technical equipment specifically developed at NC State and other equipment such as evenness testers and hairiness testers for understanding this phenomenon. Specific tests regarding fiber parameters such as hairiness and oil extractable content from polyester, innovative visual techniques, resistance testing, and voltage measurements all completed within temp/humidity controlled environments will all be used in conjunction to develop theories and understanding into the triboelectric effects of polyester and cotton staple structures. The results indicate that environmental humidity and temperature play critical roles in how staple yarns will perform. Tension plays little role into the charge generated as speed is shown to be the main contributing factor to charge generation. There are also differences observed within yarn structures as well as non-linear relationships between cotton and polyester blends. Specific reasoning has been developed based on supplemental data provided by other non-static measuring on non-electrical measuring tests. The results as well as the measuring processes themselves have led to further fields of interest in this topic which warrant further studies. This information collectively will help in understanding of physical principles of triboelectric charge and developing more effective solutions for combating static buildup as well as providing potential insight into static’s influence in the spinning procedures themselves.