Doctoral Researcher Julia Vuorinen is exploring the water interactions in cellulose based textiles.
“One of the most desirable properties for sportswear is comfort, which requires textile features that make the wearer feel dry and enable quick drying of the textile.”
This is normally achieved with synthetic fibres such as polyester and polyamide. In comparison, cellulose-based textiles, such as cotton, absorb moisture into the material itself. Wet cotton feels heavy and uncomfortably cold, it also dries slowly.
Julia is studying the mechanisms by which cellulose-based textiles and nonwovens interact with water. The aim is to create a cellulosic textile material that has improved moisture management properties similar to synthetic materials. To achieve this goal, Julia is using both physical and chemical modification of cellulose fibres. Her work will have a significant impact on finding biobased alternatives for synthetic materials in various applications, including hygiene products and sports textiles.
