Abrasion resistance of rayon/nylon composite fibers

Composite rayon/nylon skin/core fibers have been produced with the objective of combining synthetic and natural fiber properties. Acid etching of the core fiber is examined as a pretreatment to increase adhesion between skin and core layers. The adhesion between skin and core layers is assessed using the technique of a carrier fabric for abrasion testing. Fibers are stitched into a plain weave carrier fabric, which is then abraded. Results indicate that pretreatment with sulfuric acid, followed by a bleach rinse, improved adhesion over untreated core fibers. However, further improvement in adhesion is necessary to produce fibers with acceptable abrasion resistance. The carrier fabric method was effective in assessing adhesion and abrasion resistance of single fibers.