Comparison of test methods for measuring water absorption and transport test methods of fabrics

In the textile industry, there are a variety of test methods varying in construction mechanism, amount of water supplied and measurement parameters. In this work, the water absorption and transport properties of fabrics with different geometry and hydrophilicity were characterized by five conventional test methods and two recently developed water transport testers: Spontaneous Uptake Water Transport Tester (SUWTT) and Forced Flow Water Transport Tester (FFWTT). Testing principle of these methods is briefly outlined while their accuracy, efficiency, versatility, reproducibility, sensitivity and validity are systematically compared. The results suggest that FFWTT and SUWTT have superior performance in terms of information provided, testing duration, reproducibility, sensitivity and validity to subjective wetness sensation. In brief, this study helps fabric engineers or hygiene product developers to choose the most suitable water absorption and transport test method when developing new products.