Improved functional textiles and manufacturing methods

Abstract

To provide a method of manufacturing fibers having improved comfort and water and odor adsorption properties.SOLUTION: There is provided a method for making fibers, the method including: doping a liquid polymer with zeolite particles encapsulated in a sealing material, wherein the zeolite particles have an average diameter of 0.2 to 50 micron (inclusive) and are present in fibers at a concentration of 250 to 25,000 parts per million; forming fibers from the particle-doped polymer; and treating the fiber with 5 to 25% NaOH, LiOH, or KOH at about 80°C to 100°C for about 15 to 45 minutes to remove a portion of a surface layer of the fiber to form weight-reduced fibers, wherein the portion of the surface layer of the fiber that is removed has a thickness of about 0.1 to 10 times the average diameter of the zeolite particles, and wherein the fiber forms a multifilament yarn or a staple fiber with an odor adsorption or an odor activity value (OAV) of at least 15.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to improving the sorption capacity of textiles. In particular, the present invention relates to textile fibers and methods for treating these fibers to improve their water sorption capacity and thereby improve the moisture vapor transport properties of the fibers. [Background technology]

[0002] Fibers doped with functional additives have limited water or odor adsorption capacity. After manufacture, the capacity of the doped woven fabric is not optimal. Therefore, there is a significant need for a manufacturing process to produce higher capacity fibers and yarns with the same or lower amounts of functional additives. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The surprising discovery has been disclosed that by reducing the weight of textile fibers doped with molecular adsorbent particles, the molecular adsorption activity of the treated fibers and the overall thermal management of fabrics made from these treated fibers are significantly improved. This discovery enables the production of improved functional fibers and fabrics, as well as significantly reduced production costs. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that the weight reduction process removes a portion of the outer layer of the fiber, exposing a larger surface area of ​​the molecular adsorbent particles to the external environment.

[0004] Thus, in one aspect, the present invention provides an article of manufacture containing a polymer having particles embedded therein, wherein a portion of the surface of the polymer has been removed to expose a subset of the particles to the external environment. In one embodiment, the portion of the polymer surface that is removed represents 5% to 50% by weight of the polymer prior to removal of the portion of the surface. In one embodiment, the cross-sectional distribution of particles throughout the article is uniform all the way to the outer surface of the article. In other words, the article does not have an outer layer, no matter how thin, that does not contain particles. In another embodiment, the density of particles at the outer surface of the article or exposed to its external environment is higher than the density of particles closer to the core. In other words, the article has an outer layer, no matter how thin, that contains particles with a higher density than the inner core.

[0005] In one embodiment, the particles have an average surface area of ​​at least about 10 square meters per gram, thereby enabling the adsorption of relatively large amounts of molecules, such as water, butane, butyric acid, and other odorant molecules. In one embodiment, the particles can adsorb at least 10% by weight of water. In certain preferred embodiments, the particles are zeolite particles. In some embodiments, other particles not normally associated with molecular adsorption, such as titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles, may be included to impart light-scattering properties and are embedded in the polymer. In certain preferred embodiments, the particles do not contain silver or silver ions, or, in other words, the product does not contain silver, silver ions, or silver-containing compounds.

[0006] In one embodiment, the polymer is a synthetic polymer, such as polyester, nylon, polyurethane, polylactic acid, etc. In another embodiment, the polymer is a natural polymer, such as cellulose, etc. With respect to natural polymers, both natural cellulose fibers, such as cotton, hemp, flax, etc., and regenerated cellulose fibers, such as lyocell, viscose, rayon, etc., are considered to contain natural polymers. In some embodiments, the article of manufacture contains two or more different polymers, which may be natural or synthetic, or a combination of natural and synthetic.

[0007] In one embodiment, the article of manufacture is a fiber, such as a monofilament fiber, a filament, a staple fiber, or a yarn. In another embodiment, the article of manufacture is a textile knitted or woven from the fiber. In another embodiment, the article of manufacture is a garment made from the textile. In one embodiment, the fiber or textile has a greater molecular adsorption capacity, a greater water adsorption capacity, and / or a greater odor activity value (OAV) than a similar fiber or textile from which the outer layer has not been removed.

[0008] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of making fibers by providing a liquid or molten polymer (e.g., in the case of a synthetic polymer such as a molten or flowable polyester) or a liquid polymer solution (e.g., in the case of dissolved cellulose to produce regenerated cellulose fibers), doping the polymer with molecularly adsorbed particles, forming fibers from the particle-doped polymer, and (d) removing a portion of the surface layer of the fiber to expose a portion of the molecularly adsorbed particles to the external environment.

[0009] In one embodiment, 5% to 50% by weight of the polymer or fiber is removed. In another embodiment, 0.25 to 2 microns of the surface of the fiber is removed. Any method now known or yet to be discovered can be used to remove a portion of the surface layer of the fiber, such as by conventional textile fiber weight reduction processes. In some embodiments, the surface layer of the fiber is removed by alkaline weight reduction, enzymatic digestion, mercerization, ultraviolet treatment, laser etching, plasma etching, physical shaving with a cutting die, or the like.

[0010] In one embodiment, similar to the previous aspect, the particles have an average surface area of ​​at least about 10 square meters per gram, thereby enabling the adsorption of relatively large amounts of molecules, such as water, butane, butyric acid, and other odorant molecules. In one embodiment, the particles can adsorb at least 10% by weight of water. In certain preferred embodiments, the particles are zeolite particles. In some embodiments, other particles not normally associated with molecular adsorption, such as titanium dioxide (TiO2) particles, may be included to impart light-scattering properties and are embedded in the polymer. In certain preferred embodiments, the particles do not contain silver or silver ions, or in other words, the product does not contain silver, silver ions, or silver-containing compounds.

[0011] In one embodiment, as in the previous aspect, the polymer is a synthetic polymer, such as polyester, nylon, polyurethane, polylactic acid, etc. In another embodiment, the polymer is a natural polymer, such as cellulose. With respect to natural polymers, both natural cellulose fibers, such as cotton, hemp, flax, etc., and regenerated cellulose fibers, such as lyocell, viscose, rayon, etc., are considered to contain natural polymers. In some embodiments, the article of manufacture includes two or more different polymers, which may be natural or synthetic, or a combination of natural and synthetic.

[0012] In some embodiments where the polymer is a synthetic polymer (e.g., polyester or other plastic), the fibers are formed by melt extrusion (i.e., melt spinning) of a liquid or molten polymer. In some embodiments where the polymer is a natural polymer (e.g., regenerated cellulose), the fibers are formed by wet or dry spinning of a liquid polymer solution.

[0013] In another embodiment, the fibers are woven or knitted to form a woven fabric. In yet another embodiment, the woven fabric is fashioned into a garment having improved heat and odor management properties.

[0014] In another aspect, the present invention provides fibers and / or woven fabrics produced by the process described in the previous aspect, i.e., by, inter alia, providing a liquid or molten polymer (e.g., in the case of a synthetic polymer such as a molten or flowable polyester) or a liquid polymer solution (e.g., in the case of dissolved cellulose to produce regenerated cellulose fibers), doping the polymer with molecularly adsorbed particles, forming fibers from the particle-doped polymer, and (d) removing a portion of the surface layer of the fiber to expose a portion of the molecularly adsorbed particles to the external environment.

[0015] In one embodiment, 5% to 50% by weight of the polymer or fiber is removed. In another embodiment, 0.25 to 2 microns of the surface of the fiber is removed. Any method now known or yet to be discovered can be used to remove a portion of the surface layer of the fiber, such as by conventional textile fiber weight reduction processes. In some embodiments, the surface layer of the fiber is removed by alkaline weight reduction, enzymatic digestion, mercerization, ultraviolet treatment, laser etching, plasma etching, physical shaving with a cutting die, or the like. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] The subject matter and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters refer to like parts throughout.

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 is a line graph showing odor activity values ​​as a function of percent weight loss. [Figure 2] 1 is a flow chart illustrating a process for making a product. [Figure 3] 1 is a dot plot and line graph showing the rate of mass loss as a function of time. [Figure 4] 1 is a scanning electron micrograph (SEM) showing a control fiber with no weight loss. [Figure 5] 1 is an SEM showing the surface of a fiber with a weight loss of 5%. [Figure 6] 1 is an SEM showing the surface of a fiber with a weight loss of 10%. [Figure 7] 1 is an SEM showing the surface of a fiber with a 50% weight loss. [Figure 8] 1 is a line graph showing the perceived temperature as a function of time for a garment with particle-doped fiber (blue line) and a garment with control fiber (gray line).

[0018] Detailed Description of the Embodiments Before the present methods are described, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to the particular methods or systems and experimental conditions described, as such methods or systems and conditions may vary. Also, it is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting, since the scope of the present invention will be limited only by the appended claims.

[0019] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a "method" includes one or more methods, elements, and / or steps of the kind described herein and / or that will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading this disclosure or otherwise.

[0020] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the use of the term "about" refers to a range of values ​​within 15% above or below a specified value, excluding nominal temperatures. For example, the phrase "about 3 mM" means within 15% of 3 mM, i.e., 2.55 mM to 3.45 mM, inclusive. Similarly, the phrase "about 3 millimeters (mm)" means 2.55 mm to 3.45 mm, inclusive. When used to indicate a change in temperature, the term "about" refers to a range of values ​​within 15% above or below a specified value. For example, "about 5°C" when used to indicate a change such as "thermal resolution of greater than 5°C at 3 mm" means within 15% of 5°C, i.e., 4.25°C to 5.75°C. When referring to a nominal temperature, such as "about -50°C to about +50°C," the term "about" refers to ±5°C. Thus, for example, the phrase "about 37°C" means 32°C to 42°C.

[0021] Unless otherwise defined, all scientific and technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this invention belongs.Although any systems, elements, methods, and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of this invention, preferred systems, elements, methods, and materials are described herein.All publications cited herein are incorporated herein by reference to describe their entirety.

[0022] The term "or" as used in this specification and the appended claims is intended to distinguish between two terms exclusively and means "either." Therefore, when the term "or" is used in connection with items A and B, such as "item A or B," the phrase should be interpreted as "either item A or item B, but not both item A and item B." The term "and" as used in the appended claims and specifications is intended to be inclusive. Using the example of items A and B above, the phrase "item A and item B" should be interpreted as "both item A and item B." When the term "and / or" is used in the claims and specifications, it should be interpreted as inclusive and exclusive. Therefore, in the above example, the phrase "A and / or B" should be interpreted as "either 'A or B' or 'A and B'."

[0023] References herein to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "a preferred embodiment," "an alternative embodiment," "an alternative," "one alternative," and similar phrases mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with at least one embodiment of the invention. Phrases such as "in one embodiment," "in an embodiment," or "in an alternative" and similar phrases appearing in various places throughout the specification do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiment or alternative, but may refer to multiple embodiments or alternatives. Similarly, the word "exemplary" is used herein to mean "serving as an example, instance, or illustration." Use of the word "exemplary" herein should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.

[0024] The present disclosure teaches woven fabrics that include yarns spun from fibers and / or include molecularly adsorbing particle additive-containing continuous filament yarns and that have been treated with a weight reduction process.

[0025] The weight reduction process removes the base polymer material, exposing more of the additive to the external environment, thereby increasing the additive's effective concentration and thereby improving the performance of the fiber, yarn, and fabric. This works for additives that interact with the surrounding environment, requiring the product's surface area to be exposed. The doped additives and the product made with the weight reduction process produce textiles with improved physical properties. Haggquist in U.S. Pat. No. 7,247,374 (hereinafter "'374"; incorporated by reference in its entirety) teaches the use of a removable sealant to improve the performance of polymers doped with additives that interact with the surrounding environment. This disclosure teaches a method of allowing the additive to be exposed by pre-coating the additive, which is later removed. While the use of a removable sealant is not required, the use of this teaching, combined with disclosures such as those taught in the '374 patent, can result in products with higher levels of performance.

[0026] The present disclosure teaches textiles and methods to be used to produce textiles with molecularly adsorbed particulate additives that produce performance fabrics. Exemplary additives, such as activated carbon or zeolite, improve user comfort by moving water vapor from next to the skin to the outside of the garment. Lower humidity next to the skin results in a cooler perceived temperature, improved thermoregulation, and increased comfort levels.

[0027] The present invention provides improved fibers and fabrics with improved water and odor adsorption capabilities, as well as improved methods for making these textile fibers and fabrics. In one embodiment, the subject textile fibers are polymer fibers doped with molecular-adsorbing particles disposed on the surface of the fibers and exposed to the external environment in a number or density sufficient to improve molecular adsorption capabilities and improve temperature regulation through humidity management in garments made from the subject fibers. In another embodiment, the subject textiles are polymer fibers doped with molecular-adsorbing particles disposed on the surface of the fibers and exposed to the external environment in a number or density sufficient to improve molecular adsorption capabilities and improve temperature regulation through humidity management in garments made from the subject fibers. This results in fibers or fabrics with improved molecular adsorption capabilities and improved thermal comfort, produced by removing a portion of the outer layer of the doped fiber with a weight loss of the fiber.

[0028] polymer Polymers useful in the practice of the present invention include any polymers now known or later discovered that can be spun into fibers or cast into sheets. The polymers can be synthetic or natural polymers, or composite materials containing natural and synthetic polymers. As used herein, synthetic polymers can be used interchangeably with plastics. Preferred synthetic polymers include thermoplastics that retain flexibility at ambient and physiological temperatures.

[0029] As used herein, preferred synthetic polymers are sufficiently meltable to allow for the addition of particles (e.g., pigments, molecularly adsorbed particles, antimicrobial materials, etc.) and subsequent extrusion into fibers or sheets.

[0030] Synthetic polymers include polymers artificially synthesized from monomer units. For example, the monomer units may be linked by ester bonds, ether bonds, amide bonds, carbon-carbon bonds, glycosidic bonds, etc. The monomer units may include one or more molecules such as dicarboxylic acids, diamines, lactic acid, glycolic acid, carbonic acid, styrene, ethylene, propylene, vinyl, ethylene terephthalate, tetrafluoroethylene, etc. For example, a polymer of ethylene terephthalate linked by ester bonds is known as polyethylene terephthalate, or PET, a commonly used polyester. In another example, a polymer of dicarboxylic acids and diamines linked by amide bonds is known as nylon. Nylon and polyester are well-known and useful thermoplastic synthetic polymers used to make textile fibers and are useful in the practice of the subject invention. Other useful synthetic polymers include, but are not limited to, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polycarbonate, etc.

[0031] The polymer may be a natural polymer. Natural polymers that natural fibers may contain include proteins, polynucleotides, fatty acids, and polysaccharides. Specific natural polymers useful in the practice of the subject invention include, but are not limited to, cellulose (β-linked D-glucose units), fibroin (comprising repeating units of Gly-Ser-Gly-Ala-Gly-Ala), keratin, chitosan, chitin, and the like. Natural fibers containing natural polymers may be derived from plant or animal sources and include silk, tendon, wool, catgut, angora, mohair, alpaca hair, cotton, flax, jute, kenaf, industrial hemp, ramie, rattan, liana fiber, coir, kapok, and milkweed, among others.

[0032] In a preferred embodiment, the natural polymer is cellulose extracted and purified from any source (e.g., straw, wood, bast, stems, leaves, seeds, etc.). Refined cellulose, such as cellulose purified from wood pulp, microcrystalline cellulose, etc., can be used to make what is known in the art as regenerated cellulose (e.g., viscose, rayon, acetate, triacetate, modal, Tencel, lyocell, etc.). Here, solubilized cellulose polymers in slurry, gel, or liquid form can be doped with molecularly adsorbed particles and then cast into fibers.

[0033] In some embodiments, the subject fibers can be made from combinations of polymer fibers, including combinations of natural and synthetic polymers such as cellulose and polyester, to achieve specific functional attributes. For example, polyester / cellulose blends impart superhydrophobic and superhydrophilic properties to fibers and fabrics.

[0034] particle Particles useful in the practice of the subject invention include any molecularly adsorbent particles, known or yet to be discovered. As used herein, the term molecularly adsorbent particles includes particles capable of adsorbing any one or more of small molecules (<1,000 Daltons) such as air, water, butane, butyric acid, polyamines, etc.; large molecules (>1,000 Daltons) such as proteins, carbohydrates, fats, etc.; and microorganisms (50 nm-60 μm) such as viruses, yeast, and bacteria.

[0035] Other particles may be included in the subject products, such as pigment particles that impart color and optical finish, e.g., TiO2, antimicrobial particles that inhibit the growth and proliferation of bacteria and fungi, e.g., silver or silver ion-containing particles, and molecular absorbing particles that chelate, otherwise surround, or inactivate undesirable molecules, e.g., particles containing desferrioxamine, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, and the like.

[0036] In one embodiment, the subject polymers, fibers, fabrics, or garments do not contain silver, silver ions, or silver-containing compounds.

[0037] Molecular adsorbent particles generally offer a large surface area per weight. Notable examples of molecular adsorbent particles with very large surface areas per weight are up to 1,000 m per gram. 2 In some embodiments, the molecular adsorption particles have a surface area of ​​about 2 m per gram. 2 , 3m per gram 2 , 4m per gram 2 , 5m per gram 2 , 6m per gram 2 , 7m per gram 2 , 8m per gram 2 , 9m per gram 2 , 10m per gram 2 , 15m per gram 2 , 20m per gram 2 , 25m per gram 2 , 30m per gram 2 , 40m per gram 2 , 50m per gram 2 , 75m per gram 2 , 100m per gram 2 , 150m per gram 2 , 200m per gram 2 , 250m per gram 2 ~1,000m 2 , 5m per gram 2 ~15m 2 , 1m per gram 2 ~10m 2 , 6m per gram 2 ~14m 2 , 7m per gram 2 ~13m 2 , 8m per gram 2 ~112m 2 , or 9m per gram 2 ~11m 2 It has a surface area of

[0038] In one embodiment, the average diameter of the particles is smaller than the diameter of the fiber. For example, particles useful for doping a fiber with a radius of 7.5 μm (diameter of 15 μm) have an average diameter of 15 μm or less. Particles having submicron sizes are also included. In some embodiments, the particles are about 0.5 μm to 15 μm, 1 μm to 20 μm, 2 μm to 15 μm, 1.5 μm to 15 μm, 4 μm to 14 μm, 1 μm to 100 μm, 1 μm to 50 μm, about 0.5 μm, about 1 μm, about 1.5 μm, about 2 μm, about 2.5 μm, about 3 μm, about 3.5 μm, about 4 μm, about 4.5 μm, about 5 μm, about 5.5 μm, about 6 μm, about 6.5 μm, about 7 μm, about 7.5 μm, or about 8 μm.

[0033] In some embodiments, the nanoparticles have an average diameter of about 8.5 μm, about 9 μm, about 9.5 μm, about 10 μm, about 10.5 μm, about 11 μm, about 11.5 μm, about 12 μm, about 12.5 μm, about 13 μm, about 13.5 μm, about 14 μm, about 14.5 μm, about 15 μm, about 15.5 μm, about 16 μm, about 16.5 μm, about 17 μm, about 17.5 μm, about 18 μm, about 18.5 μm, about 19 μm, about 19.5 μm, or about 20 μm.

[0039] In some embodiments, the subject molecular adsorbent particles may include, but are not limited to, activated carbon and zeolite. Activated carbon may be derived, for example, from wood, bamboo, coal, coconut, or bismuth. Activated carbon may also be synthetically derived. In preferred embodiments, the molecular adsorbent particles comprise zeolite. In more preferred embodiments, the molecular adsorbent zeolite particles have a peak at 700-1500 cm as measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). -1 (See Byrappa and Kumar, Asian Journal of Chemistry, 19(6), pp. 4933-4935 (2007)). In one embodiment, the zeolite is an aluminosilicate, analcime, chabazite, clinoptilolite, heulandite, natrolite, phillyite, or stilbite.

[0040] In some embodiments, particles useful in the practice of the present invention include any known or yet to be discovered particle that absorbs molecules (i.e., molecule-absorbing particles). Exemplary molecule-absorbing particles include, but are not limited to, clay, silica gel, calcium oxide, calcium sulfate, and the like.

[0041] In some embodiments, the subject molecular adsorption particles can adsorb a quantity of water, odor molecules, or other undesirable molecules to impart heat, humidity, and / or odor management qualities to fibers, fabrics, or garments. In some embodiments, the subject molecule-adsorbing particles can adsorb molecules at about 0.1%-100%, 1%-100%, about 1%-20%, about 2%-19%, about 3%-18%, about 4%-17%, about 5%-16%, about 6%-about 15%, about 7%-14%, about 8%-13%, about 9%-12%, about 10%-11%, about 1%, about 2%, about 3%, about 4%, about 5%, about 6%, about 7%, about 8%, about 9%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 16%, about 17%, about 18%, about 19%, about 20%, or more than 10% by weight of the particle. In one embodiment, the subject molecular-adsorbing particles are capable of uptake or adsorption of greater than 10% by weight of water vapor at 20°C after drying at 200°C for 30 minutes.

[0042] fiber As used herein, the term "fiber" applies to monofilament, multifilament, and staple fibers used in the production of yarns and fabrics. Fibers can be of any thickness, shape, and length.

[0043] In some embodiments, the subject fibers have a cross-sectional aspect ratio of 4 or less, 3.5 or less, 3 or less, 2.5 or less, 2 or less, 1.5 or less, about 1, between about 1 and 1.5, or between about 1 and 1.5. Preferred fibers are roughly cylindrical.

[0044] In some embodiments, the subject fibers have a cross-sectional radius of 0.1 μm to 20 μm, 0.1 μm to 15 μm, 0.1 μm to 10 μm, 0.1 μm to 7.5 μm, 0.1 μm to 5 μm, about 0.5 μm, about 1 μm, about 1.5 μm, about 2 μm, about 2.5 μm, about 3 μm, about 3.5 μm, about 4 μm, about 4.5 μm, about 5 μm, about 5.5 μm, about 6 μm, about 6.5 μm, about 7 μm, about 7.5 μm, about 8 μm, about 8.5 μm, about 9 μm, about 9.5 μm, about 10 μm, about 10.5 μm, about 11 μm, about 11.5 μm, about 12 μm, or about 12.5 μm.

[0045] The subject fibers are doped with molecular-adsorbing particles. In some embodiments, there is no requirement for a specific concentration of particles within the fiber or polymer, only a requirement for providing a density of particles exposed to the surface of the fiber sufficient to allow effective adsorption of water and / or odor molecules. In some embodiments, the fibers contain molecular-adsorbing particles in a weight-to-weight ratio of particles to fiber or particles to polymer of 0.05% to 5% (i.e., 500 ppm to 50,000 ppm), 0.1% to 5%, 0.2% to 4%, 0.2% to 2%, 0.4% to 0.6%, about 0.1%, about 0.2%, about 0.3%, about 0.4%, about 0.5%, about 0.6%, about 0.7%, about 0.8%, about 0.9%, about 1%, about 1.5%, or about 2% (i.e., 20,000 ppm).

[0046] In some embodiments, the molecular adsorbent particles are present in the polymer or fiber at a concentration of 0-20,000 ppm, 0-250 ppm, 250-1000 ppm, 1000-5000 ppm, 5000-20000 ppm, 100-1000 ppm, 200-2000 ppm, 500-6000 ppm, or 250-20000 ppm.

[0047] The amount of inorganic particles (e.g., zeolite and any TiO2 that may be present) can be determined by measuring the weight percent of ash from the doped fiber. Generally, ash testing involves taking a known amount of sample, placing the weighed sample in a dry / pre-weighed porcelain crucible, burning off the polymer, and weighing the crucible after cooling to room temperature in a desiccator. Any ash residue remaining in the crucible is due to unburned inorganic inclusions (i.e., the subject particles). Ash content analysis of plastics can be determined using methods specified in ASTM D2584, ASTM D5630, and ISO 3451.

[0048] In some embodiments of the present invention, the subject fibers are treated to expose a greater number of molecular-adsorbing particles on the fiber surface. In one embodiment, the fibers are subjected to weight reduction to expose a greater number of molecular-adsorbing particles on the fiber surface, where the weight reduction step can vary the overall concentration of particles as determined by ash testing. In an exemplary embodiment, polyester fiber yarns containing about 4000 ppm to about 6000 ppm zeolite (and 0.27% to 0.35% TiO) were weight reduced by varying amounts and then subjected to ash testing, which showed ash contents of about 0.6% to about 1.1% (w).

[0049] In some embodiments, the ash content by weight of a subject fiber, yarn, or sheet containing molecular adsorbing particles is between about 0.05% and 5%, between about 0.5% and 5%, between about 1% and 5%, between about 1.5% and 5%, between about 2% and 5%, between about 0.05% and 2%, between about 0.05% and 1.5%, between about 0.05% and 1%, between about 0.01%, between about 0.02%, between about 0.03%, between about 0.04%, between about 0.05%, between about 0.1%, between about 0.15%, between about 0.2%, between about 0.25%, between about 0.3%, about 0.35%, about 0.4%, about 0.45%, about 0.5%, about 0.55%, about 0.6%, about 0.65%, about 0.7%, about 0.75%, about 0.8%, about 0.85%, about 0.9%, about 0.95%, about 1%, about 1.1%, about 1.2%, about 1.3%, about 1.4%, about 1.5%, about 1.6%, about 1.7%, about 1.8%, about 1.9%, about 2%, about 2.5%, about 3%, about 3.5%, about 4%, about 5.5%, or about 5%.

[0050] In one embodiment, improved fibers are produced by reducing the weight of the doped fibers. The amount of weight reduction can be any amount that improves the absorption-related functionality of the textile while maintaining the overall softness, hand, and / or drape of the textile. In some embodiments, the weight of the fiber / yarn is reduced by about 0.5% to 50%, about 1% to 30%, about 5% to 30%, about 5% to 50%, about 5% to 55%, about 0.5%, about 1%, about 1.5%, about 2%, about 2.5%, about 3%, about 3.5%, about 4%, about 4.5%, about 5%, about 5.5%, about 6%, about 6.5%, about 7%, about 7.5%, about 8%, about 8.5%, about 9%, about 9.5%, about 10%, about 11%, about 12%, about 13%, about 14%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, or about 55%.

[0051] The weight loss rate is related to the removal of the outer surface of a portion of the fiber / yarn and is therefore correlated to the depth (thickness) of the outer surface portion as a function of fiber radius. Thus, in some embodiments, the thickness of the outer layer removed is between 0.1 μm and 10 μm, between 0.1 μm and 9 μm, between 0.1 μm and 8 μm, between 0.1 μm and 7 μm, between 0.1 μm and 6 μm, between 0.1 μm and 5 μm, between 0.1 μm and 4 μm, between 0.1 μm and 3 μm, between 0.1 μm and 3 μm, between 0.1 μm and 2 μm, between 0.1 μm and 1 μm, between 0.1 μm and 0.5 μm, about 0.1 μm, about 0.2 μm, about 0.3 μm, about 0.4 μm, about 0.5 μm, about 1 μm, about 1.5 μm, about 2 μm, about 2.5 μm, about 3 μm, about 3.5 μm, about 4 μm, about 4.5 μm, or about 5 μm.

[0052] In some embodiments, the thickness of the outer layer removed is about 1% to 99%, about 5%, about 10%, about 15%, about 20%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, or about 95% of the mean or mode average diameter of the molecular-adsorbing particles embedded within the fiber. In preferred embodiments, the thickness of the outer layer removed does not exceed about 50% of the mean or mode average diameter of the molecular-adsorbing particles embedded within the fiber.

[0053] In one exemplary embodiment, the radius is 7.5 μm and the cross-sectional area is 176.71 μm 2 A pre-weighted fiber having a radius of 7.31 μm and a cross-sectional area of ​​167.88 μm was weighted 5%. 2 Thus, a 5% weight loss resulted in a radius loss (layer thickness removed) of 0.19 μm. Table 1 shows the change in radius related to the weight loss rate for a 7.5 μm fiber. [Table 1]

[0054] As disclosed herein, a reduction in the radius or weight of the subject particle-doped fibers or yarns correlates with improved adsorption of water, odors, or other molecules and concomitant improvements in textile performance. Several methods are used to measure the adsorption capacity of textiles. For example, butane adsorption is used as an indicator of the adsorption of butyric acid, an odor molecule, and correlates with a textile's ability to remove odors (and analogously, remove water and reduce humidity). Therefore, butane adsorption (determined by standard testing procedures such as ASTM D5228) correlates with an odor activity value (OAV), expressed as the relative weight of butane adsorbed per unit weight of fiber / yarn. Here, an OAV of 1 means that 1 gram of doped fiber / yarn will adsorb 0.1 milligrams of butane; an OAV of 10 means that 1 gram of doped fiber / yarn will adsorb 1 milligram of butane; and an OAV of 100 means that 1 gram of doped fiber / yarn will adsorb 10 milligrams of butane. Also, an OAV of 100 for a first article means that the first article adsorbs 10 times more molecules (e.g., odor molecules or indicator molecules such as butane) by weight compared to an OAV of 10 for a second article.

[0055] In one embodiment, the OAV of a particle-doped fiber or yarn that has been weight-reduced to remove a portion of the outer surface of the fiber or yarn is about 40% to 360%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, or about 80% of the OAV of a similar particle-doped fiber or yarn that has not been weight-reduced. An increase of about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, about 100%, about 110%, about 120%, about 130%, about 140%, about 160%, about 170%, about 180%, about 190%, about 200%, about 220%, about 240%, about 260%, about 280%, about 300%, about 320%, about 340%, about 360%, about 380%, about 400%, or more than 300%.

[0056] In one embodiment, the OAV of a particle-doped fiber or yarn that has been weight-reduced to remove a portion of the outer surface of the fiber or yarn is about 40% to 360%, about 25%, about 30%, about 35%, about 40%, about 45%, about 50%, about 55%, about 60%, about 65%, about 70%, about 75%, or about 80% of the OAV of a similar particle-doped fiber or yarn that has not been weight-reduced. An increase of about 80%, about 85%, about 90%, about 95%, about 100%, about 110%, about 120%, about 130%, about 140%, about 160%, about 170%, about 180%, about 190%, about 200%, about 220%, about 240%, about 260%, about 280%, about 300%, about 320%, about 340%, about 360%, about 380%, about 400%, or more than 300%.

[0057] In one embodiment, the OAV of the subject particle-doped fibers or yarns is about 15-50, 15 or more, 20 or more, 25 or more, 30 or more, 35 or more, 40 or more, 45 or more, 50 or more, about 15, about 20, about 25, about 30, about 35, about 40, about 45, or about 50.

[0058] In one exemplary embodiment, a 7.5 μm radius polyester fiber sample doped with at least about 5000 ppm zeolite was subjected to a weight loss of about 5% to about 50% and then subjected to a butane load, where the OAV increased in correlation with the increase in weight loss from 5% to about 30%, at which point the OAV plateaued (FIG. 1).

[0059] Manufacturing Process The subject fibers and yarns doped with molecular adsorption particles and having improved textile absorption and comfort properties may be made by any method now known or yet to be discovered.

[0060] 2, in one embodiment, the subject fibers are made by process 200, which includes the steps of liquefying a polymer by melting it or dissolving it in a solvent 210, adding molecularly adsorbing particles to the molten or dissolved polymer to form a mixture 220, passing the mixture through a die or spinneret to form fiber 230, cooling or settling fiber 240 to form a solidified fiber, and removing a portion of the outer layer of solidified fiber 250 to expose a subset of the molecularly adsorbing particles to the environment.

[0061] In one embodiment, the fibers are formed using a melt-spinning process, whereby a molten polymer (e.g., a synthetic polymer such as polyester, nylon, or more specifically polyethylene terephthalate) is combined with molecular-adsorbing particles, then extruded through a spinneret, and then directly solidified by cooling. The formed fiber or yarn is then subjected to a weight reduction step to facilitate exposing the molecular-adsorbing particles to the outer surface of the fiber.

[0062] In one embodiment, the fibers are formed using a dry spinning process, whereby a polymer is combined and solubilized with a solvent, molecular-adsorbing particles are added to the solution, and the suspension is then fed through a jet nozzle into a spinning duct, whereupon the spun fibers extruded through a spinneret are dried by a heated air stream and then directly solidified by cooling. The formed fibers or yarns are then subjected to a weight reduction step to facilitate exposing the molecular-adsorbing particles to the outer surface of the fibers.

[0063] In one embodiment, the fibers are formed using a wet spinning process whereby a polymer (e.g., a natural polymer such as cellulose) is combined with a solvent to solubilize it, molecularly adsorbed particles are added to the solution, and the suspension is then fed to a spinneret through a jet nozzle and submerged in a chemical bath whereby the fibers settle and then solidify as this occurs. The formed fibers or yarns are then subjected to a weight reduction step to facilitate exposing the molecularly adsorbed particles to the outer surface of the fibers.

[0064] In one embodiment, the produced fiber or yarn is subjected to weight reduction to remove a portion of the outer layer and expose the molecularly adsorbed particles to the external environment. Weight reduction methods include any known or yet to be discovered method. Weight reduction methods can be chemical or physical processes. In another embodiment, "weight reduction" refers to reducing the weight ratio of polymer to particles, which can be achieved by increasing the relative loading concentration of particles in the polymer.

[0065] In some embodiments, the fiber or yarn is weight reduced by alkaline weight reduction processing (e.g., LiOH, NaOH, or KOH treatment), acidic oxidation (e.g., sulfuric, phosphoric, or hydrochloric acid treatment), enzymatic digestion (e.g., cellulase treatment), mercerization, solvent treatment, detergent treatment, corona discharge, UV etching or oxidation, laser etching, plasma etching, die cutting (passing the fiber or yarn through a die that strips away a portion of the outer layer), and the like.

[0066] In a more specific embodiment, weight loss of doped polyester yarns is achieved by alkaline weight loss processing. Here, polyester yarns prepared via melt spinning and containing 0.2% to 2%, preferably about 0.5% by weight of molecular adsorbent particles, preferably zeolite, are exposed to a 10% NaOH solution at 90°C for 15 minutes to 2 hours to remove the polyester outer layer. In an exemplary embodiment, 7.5 μm radius polyester 75-48 yarns (PET) were treated with a 10% (w / w) NaOH solution at 90°C for various times, resulting in increased weight loss with longer treatment times until about 40 to 45 minutes after which weight loss appeared to plateau (Table 2 and Figure 3). [Table 2]

[0067] In some embodiments, the doped polymer is cast or extruded into a sheet, where the sheet is subjected to weight reduction by chemical or physical methods as described herein. In some embodiments, the doped polymer sheet is weight reduced by grinding or planing. In some embodiments, the weight reduced doped polymer sheet can be assembled into layers or fastened into larger sheets to produce fabrics, mats, fabrication materials, etc.

[0068] fabric Textiles and garments made using the disclosed improved fibers and yarns have improved odor reduction, improved humidity reduction, and lower apparent temperature attributes. Here, garments made from the disclosed improved fibers and yarns have a lower apparent temperature than garments made from fibers and yarns that have not been weight-reduced. As used herein, the term "apparent temperature" refers to the perceived temperature taking humidity into account. By removing water vapor from the microclimate between the skin and the garment, the disclosed improved textiles manage the overall apparent temperature, concomitantly improving wearer comfort. Here, apparent temperature can be determined by measuring the temperature and humidity near the wearer's skin and using the algorithm described in Robert G. Steadman, "A Universal Scale of Apparent Temperature," Journal of Climate and Applied Meterology, 23:1674-1687 (1984), the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0069] In one embodiment, a subject garment or textile reduces the perceived temperature of a wearer of the garment or textile by about 0.5°C, about 1°C, about 1.5°C, about 2°C, about 2.5°C, about 3°C, about 3.5°C, about 4°C, about 4.5°C, about 5°C, about 5.5°C, about 6°C, about 6.5°C, about 7°C, about 7.5°C, or about 8°C, as compared to the perceived temperature of a wearer wearing a similarly manufactured garment made using similar fibers and yarns doped with molecularly adsorbing particles but without the weight reduction step.

[0070] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention may be practiced other than by the described embodiments, which are presented for purposes of illustration and not limitation, and that the present invention is limited only by the claims that follow.

[0071] Specific Embodiments The present invention provides certain non-limiting aspects and embodiments thereof.

[0072] In a first aspect, the present invention provides an article of manufacture.

[0073] In a first embodiment of the first aspect, an article of manufacture includes a polymer and a plurality of particles embedded within the polymer, wherein a portion of a surface of the polymer is removed to expose a subset of the plurality of particles to an external environment.

[0074] In a second embodiment of the first aspect, the portion of the surface of the polymer of the first embodiment that is removed represents 5% to 50% by weight of the polymer prior to removal of the portion of the surface.

[0075] In a third embodiment of the first aspect, the plurality of particles of the first or second embodiment comprises particles having an average diameter of between 0.2 μm and 50 μm.

[0076] In a fourth embodiment of the first aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to third embodiments have a surface area of ​​at least about 10 square meters per gram.

[0077] In a fifth embodiment of the first aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to fourth embodiments are capable of adsorbing at least 10% by weight of water.

[0078] In a sixth embodiment of the first aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to fifth embodiments comprises a zeolite.

[0079] In a seventh embodiment of the first aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to sixth embodiments comprises activated carbon.

[0080] In an eighth embodiment of the first aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to seventh embodiments does not comprise silver or silver ions.

[0081] In a ninth embodiment of the first aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to eighth embodiments comprises or consists of a polyester or other synthetic polymer.

[0082] In a tenth embodiment of the first aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to eighth embodiments comprises or consists of cellulose or other natural polymers.

[0083] In an eleventh embodiment of the first aspect, the concentration of the particles embedded in the polymer of any one of the first to tenth embodiments is 0.1% to 2% by weight.

[0084] In a twelfth embodiment of the first aspect, the product of any one of the first to eleventh embodiments is a fiber comprising two or more filaments to form a yarn.

[0085] In a thirteenth embodiment of the first aspect, the product of any one of the first to eleventh embodiments is a monofilament fiber.

[0086] In a fourteenth embodiment of the first aspect, one or more particles of the plurality of particles of any one of the first to thirteenth embodiments have an average particle size distribution between 700 and 1500 cm as measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). -1 It absorbs infrared light in the region of

[0087] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a fiber.

[0088] In a first embodiment of the second aspect, a fiber comprises a polymer and a plurality of particles embedded within the polymer, with a portion of the surface of the fiber removed to expose a subset of the plurality of particles to the external environment.

[0089] In a second embodiment of the second aspect, the portion of the surface of the fiber of the first embodiment that is removed represents 5% to 50% by weight of the fiber before removal of the portion of the surface.

[0090] In a third embodiment of the second aspect, the plurality of particles of the first embodiment or the second embodiment comprises particles having an average diameter of between 0.2 μm and 50 μm.

[0091] In a fourth embodiment of the second aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to third embodiments have a surface area of ​​at least about 10 square meters per gram.

[0092] In a fifth embodiment of the second aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to fourth embodiments are capable of adsorbing at least 10% by weight of water.

[0093] In a sixth embodiment of the second aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to fifth embodiments has an average cross-sectional aspect ratio of about 1-2.

[0094] In a seventh embodiment of the second aspect, the particles of any one of the first to sixth embodiments are (a) present in a concentration of 250 to 20,000 parts per million, or (b) uniformly distributed throughout the cross section of the fiber up to and including the surface of the fiber.

[0095] In an eighth embodiment of the second aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to seventh embodiments comprises a zeolite.

[0096] In a ninth embodiment of the second aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to eighth embodiments comprises activated carbon.

[0097] In a tenth embodiment of the second aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to ninth embodiments does not comprise silver or silver ions.

[0098] In an eleventh embodiment of the second aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to tenth embodiments comprises a polyester or other synthetic polymer.

[0099] In a twelfth embodiment of the second aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to tenth embodiments comprises cellulose or other natural polymers.

[0100] In a thirteenth embodiment of the second aspect, the fibers of any one of the first to tenth embodiments or the twelfth embodiment are viscose fibers, lyocell fibers, rayon fibers, or Bemberg fibers.

[0101] In a fourteenth embodiment of the second aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to thirteenth embodiments is a yarn comprising two or more filaments.

[0102] In a fifteenth embodiment of the second aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to thirteenth embodiments is a monofilament.

[0103] In a sixteenth embodiment of the second aspect, the one or more particles of any one of the first to fifteenth embodiments have a peak intensity of 700 to 1500 cm as measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). -1 It absorbs infrared light in the region of

[0104] In a seventeenth embodiment of the second aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to sixteenth embodiments can absorb 10% to 50% by weight of butane.

[0105] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a textile comprising a molecularly adsorbing fiber.

[0106] In a first embodiment of the third aspect, the fibers comprise a polymer and a plurality of particles embedded within the polymer, with a portion of the surface of each fiber removed to expose a subset of the plurality of particles to the external environment.

[0107] In a second embodiment of the third aspect, the portion of the surface of the fiber of the first embodiment that is removed represents 5% to 50% by weight of the fiber before removal of the portion of the surface.

[0108] In a third embodiment of the third aspect, the plurality of particles of the first embodiment or the second embodiment comprises particles having an average diameter of between 0.2 μm and 50 μm.

[0109] In a fourth embodiment of the third aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to third embodiments have a surface area of ​​at least about 10 square meters per gram.

[0110] In a fifth embodiment of the third aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to fourth embodiments are capable of adsorbing at least 10% by weight of water.

[0111] In a sixth embodiment of the third aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to fifth embodiments has an average cross-sectional aspect ratio of about 1-2.

[0112] In a seventh embodiment of the third aspect, the particles of any one of the first to sixth embodiments are (a) present in a concentration of 250 to 20,000 parts per million, or (b) uniformly distributed throughout the cross section of the fiber up to and including the surface of the fiber.

[0113] In an eighth embodiment of the third aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to seventh embodiments comprises a zeolite.

[0114] In a ninth embodiment of the third aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to eighth embodiments comprises activated carbon.

[0115] In a tenth embodiment of the third aspect, the plurality of particles of any one of the first to ninth embodiments does not comprise silver or silver ions.

[0116] In an eleventh embodiment of the third aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to tenth embodiments comprises a polyester or other synthetic polymer.

[0117] In a twelfth embodiment of the third aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to tenth embodiments comprises cellulose or other natural polymers.

[0118] In a thirteenth embodiment of the third aspect, the fibers of any one of the first to tenth embodiments or the twelfth embodiment comprise viscose fibers, lyocell fibers, rayon fibers, or Bemberg fibers.

[0119] In a fourteenth embodiment of the third aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to thirteenth embodiments is a yarn comprising two or more filaments.

[0120] In a fifteenth embodiment of the third aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to thirteenth embodiments is a monofilament.

[0121] In a sixteenth embodiment of the third aspect, one or more particles of the plurality of particles of any one of the first to fifteenth embodiments have a peak intensity of 700 to 1500 cm as measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). -1 It absorbs infrared light in the region of

[0122] In a seventeenth embodiment of the third aspect, the textile of any one of the first to sixteenth embodiments adsorbs sufficient water vapor to reduce humidity near the skin of a subject wearing the textile.

[0123] In an eighteenth embodiment of the third aspect, the textile of any one of the first to seventeenth embodiments reduces the perceived temperature near the skin of a subject by 0.5°C to 15°C.

[0124] In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a method for making a fiber.

[0125] In a first embodiment of the fourth aspect, a method for making fibers includes the steps of: (a) providing a liquid or molten polymer (e.g., in the case of a synthetic polymer such as a molten flowable polyester) or a liquid polymer solution (e.g., in the case of dissolved cellulose to produce regenerated cellulose fibers); (b) doping the liquid or molten polymer or liquid polymer solution with 0.5% to 10% by weight of particles; (c) forming fibers from the particle-doped polymer; and (d) removing a portion of the surface layer of the fibers to expose the particles to the external environment.

[0126] In a second embodiment of the fourth aspect, the fiber of the first embodiment has a cross-sectional aspect ratio of about 1-2.

[0127] In a third embodiment of the fourth aspect, the particles of the first embodiment or the second embodiment are (a) present in a concentration of 250 to 20,000 parts per million, or (b) uniformly distributed throughout the cross section of the fiber up to and including the surface of the fiber.

[0128] In a fourth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the average diameter of the particles of any one of the first to third embodiments is 0.01 to 0.2 of the average diameter of the fibers.

[0129] In a fifth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to fourth embodiments are capable of absorbing at least 10% by weight of water.

[0130] In a sixth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth embodiments comprises a synthetic monomer.

[0131] In a seventh embodiment of the fourth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to sixth embodiments comprises ethylene terephthalate monomers.

[0132] In an eighth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to seventh embodiments comprises a polyester.

[0133] In a ninth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to eighth embodiments is formed by melt extrusion of a liquid or molten polymer.

[0134] In a tenth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth embodiments comprises a naturally occurring monomer.

[0135] In an eleventh embodiment of the fourth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth and tenth embodiments comprises D-glucose monomers.

[0136] In a twelfth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth and tenth to eleventh embodiments comprises cellulose.

[0137] In a thirteenth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to fifth and tenth to twelfth embodiments is formed by wet spinning a liquid polymer solution.

[0138] In a fourteenth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to thirteenth embodiments have an average diameter of 0.2 μm to 50 μm.

[0139] In a fifteenth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the portion of the surface layer of the fiber removed in any one of the first to fourteenth embodiments has a thickness of about 0.1 to 10 times the average diameter of the particle.

[0140] In a sixteenth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the weight of the surface layer of the fiber removed in any one of the first to fifteenth embodiments is 5% to 50% of the weight of the fiber before removing the layer.

[0141] In a seventeenth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to sixteenth embodiments is a staple fiber having an odor activity value (OAV) of at least 15.

[0142] In an eighteenth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to seventeenth embodiments have a surface area of ​​greater than 10 square meters per gram.

[0143] In a nineteenth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to eighteenth embodiments comprise a zeolite.

[0144] In a twentieth embodiment of the fourth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to nineteenth embodiments comprise activated carbon.

[0145] In a twenty-first embodiment of the fourth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to twentieth embodiments do not contain silver or silver ions.

[0146] In a twenty-second embodiment of the fourth aspect, a part of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by alkali weight reduction processing.

[0147] In a twenty-third embodiment of the fourth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-second embodiments is removed by treating the fiber with 5% to 25% NaOH, LiOH, or KOH at about 80°C to 100°C for about 15 to 45 minutes.

[0148] In a twenty-fourth embodiment of the fourth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by enzymatic digestion.

[0149] In a twenty-fifth embodiment of the fourth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by mercerization.

[0150] In a twenty-sixth embodiment of the fourth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by laser etching.

[0151] In a twenty-seventh embodiment of the fourth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by plasma etching.

[0152] In a fifth aspect, the present invention provides fibers useful in making woven fabrics.

[0153] In a first embodiment of the fifth aspect, the fibers are produced by (a) providing a liquid or molten polymer (e.g., in the case of a molten synthetic polymer such as a flowable polyester) or a liquid polymer solution (e.g., in the case of dissolved cellulose to produce regenerated cellulose fibers), (b) doping the liquid or molten polymer or liquid polymer solution with 0.5% to 10% by weight of particles, (c) forming fibers from the particle-doped polymer, and (d) removing a portion of the surface layer of the fibers to expose the particles to the external environment.

[0154] In a second embodiment of the fifth aspect, the fiber of the first embodiment has a cross-sectional aspect ratio of about 1-2.

[0155] In a third embodiment of the fifth aspect, the particles of the first embodiment or the second embodiment are (a) present in a concentration of 250 to 20,000 parts per million, or (b) uniformly distributed throughout the cross section of the fiber up to and including the surface of the fiber.

[0156] In a fourth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the average diameter of the particles of any one of the first to third embodiments is 0.01 to 0.2 of the diameter of the fibers.

[0157] In a fifth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to fourth embodiments are capable of absorbing at least 10% by weight of water.

[0158] In a sixth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth embodiments comprises a synthetic monomer.

[0159] In a seventh embodiment of the fifth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to sixth embodiments comprises ethylene terephthalate monomers.

[0160] In an eighth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to seventh embodiments comprises a polyester.

[0161] In a ninth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to eighth embodiments is formed by melt extrusion of a liquid or molten polymer.

[0162] In a tenth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth embodiments comprises a naturally occurring monomer.

[0163] In an eleventh embodiment of the fifth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth and tenth embodiments comprises D-glucose monomers.

[0164] In a twelfth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth and tenth to eleventh embodiments comprises cellulose.

[0165] In a thirteenth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to fifth and tenth to twelfth embodiments is formed by wet spinning a liquid polymer solution.

[0166] In a fourteenth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to thirteenth embodiments have an average diameter of from 0.2 μm to 50 μm.

[0167] In a fifteenth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the portion of the surface layer of the fiber removed in any one of the first to fourteenth embodiments has a thickness of about 0.1 to 10 times the average diameter of the particle.

[0168] In a sixteenth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the weight of the surface layer of the fiber removed in any one of the first to fifteenth embodiments is 5% to 50% of the weight of the fiber before removing the layer.

[0169] In a seventeenth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to sixteenth embodiments is a staple fiber having an odor activity value (OAV) of at least 15.

[0170] In an eighteenth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to seventeenth embodiments have a surface area of ​​greater than 10 square meters per gram.

[0171] In a nineteenth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to eighteenth embodiments comprise a zeolite.

[0172] In a twentieth embodiment of the fifth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to nineteenth embodiments comprise activated carbon.

[0173] In a twenty-first embodiment of the fifth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to twentieth embodiments do not comprise silver or silver ions.

[0174] In a twenty-second embodiment of the fifth aspect, a part of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by alkali weight reduction processing.

[0175] In a 23rd embodiment of the fifth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to 22nd embodiments is removed by treating the fiber with 5% to 25% NaOH, LiOH, or KOH at about 80°C to 100°C for about 15 to 45 minutes.

[0176] In a twenty-fourth embodiment of the fifth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by enzymatic digestion.

[0177] In a twenty-fifth embodiment of the fifth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by mercerization.

[0178] In a twenty-sixth embodiment of the fifth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by laser etching.

[0179] In a twenty-seventh embodiment of the fifth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by plasma etching.

[0180] In a sixth aspect, the present invention provides a method for making a woven fabric.

[0181] In a first embodiment of the sixth aspect, a woven fabric is made by (a) providing a liquid or molten polymer (e.g., in the case of a molten synthetic polymer such as a flowable polyester) or a liquid polymer solution (e.g., in the case of dissolved cellulose to produce regenerated cellulose fibers), (b) doping the liquid or molten polymer or liquid polymer solution with 0.5% to 10% by weight of particles, (c) forming fibers from the particle-doped polymer, (d) removing a portion of the surface layer of the fibers to expose the particles to the external environment, and (e) weaving or knitting the fibers to produce a textile capable of adsorbing water vapor.

[0182] In a second embodiment of the sixth aspect, the fiber of the first embodiment has a cross-sectional aspect ratio of about 1-2.

[0183] In a third embodiment of the sixth aspect, the particles of the first embodiment or the second embodiment are (a) present in a concentration of 250 to 20,000 parts per million, or (b) uniformly distributed throughout the cross section of the fiber up to and including the surface of the fiber.

[0184] In a fourth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the average diameter of the particles of any one of the first to third embodiments is 0.01 to 0.2 of the average diameter of the fibers.

[0185] In a fifth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to fourth embodiments are capable of absorbing at least 10% by weight of water.

[0186] In a sixth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth embodiments comprises a synthetic monomer.

[0187] In a seventh embodiment of the sixth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to sixth embodiments comprises ethylene terephthalate monomers.

[0188] In an eighth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to seventh embodiments comprises a polyester.

[0189] In a ninth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to eighth embodiments is formed by melt extrusion of a liquid or molten polymer.

[0190] In a tenth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth embodiments comprises a naturally occurring monomer.

[0191] In an eleventh embodiment of the sixth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth and tenth embodiments comprises D-glucose monomers.

[0192] In a twelfth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth and tenth to eleventh embodiments comprises cellulose.

[0193] In a thirteenth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to fifth and tenth to twelfth embodiments is formed by wet spinning a liquid polymer solution.

[0194] In a fourteenth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to thirteenth embodiments have an average diameter of 0.2 μm to 50 μm.

[0195] In a fifteenth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the portion of the surface layer of the fiber removed in any one of the first to fourteenth embodiments has a thickness of about 0.1 to 10 times the average diameter of the particle.

[0196] In a sixteenth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the weight of the surface layer of the fiber removed in any one of the first to fifteenth embodiments is 5% to 50% of the weight of the fiber before removing the layer.

[0197] In a seventeenth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to sixteenth embodiments is a staple fiber having an odor activity value (OAV) of at least 15.

[0198] In an eighteenth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to seventeenth embodiments have a surface area of ​​greater than 10 square meters per gram.

[0199] In a nineteenth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to eighteenth embodiments comprise a zeolite.

[0200] In a twentieth embodiment of the sixth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to nineteenth embodiments comprise activated carbon.

[0201] In a twenty-first embodiment of the sixth aspect, the particles of any one of the first to twentieth embodiments do not comprise silver or silver ions.

[0202] In a twenty-second embodiment of the sixth aspect, a part of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by alkali weight reduction processing.

[0203] In a twenty-third embodiment of the fourth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-second embodiments is removed by treating the fiber with 5% to 25% NaOH, LiOH, or KOH at about 80°C to 100°C for about 15 to 45 minutes.

[0204] In a twenty-fourth embodiment of the fourth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by enzymatic digestion.

[0205] In a twenty-fifth embodiment of the fourth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by mercerization.

[0206] In a twenty-sixth embodiment of the fourth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by laser etching.

[0207] In a 27th embodiment of the sixth aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the 1st to 21st embodiments is removed by plasma etching.

[0208] In a 28th embodiment of the fifth aspect, the woven fabric of any one of the 1st to 27th embodiments adsorbs sufficient water vapor to reduce humidity near the skin of a subject wearing the textile.

[0209] In a 29th embodiment of the fifth aspect, the woven fabric of any one of the 1st to 28th embodiments reduces the sensible temperature near the skin of a subject wearing the woven fabric by 0.5°C to 15°C.

[0210] In a seventh aspect, the present invention provides a woven fabric that adsorbs water and other molecules.

[0211] In a first embodiment of the seventh aspect, a woven fabric is made by a method comprising the steps of: (a) providing a liquid or molten polymer (e.g., in the case of a molten synthetic polymer such as a flowable polyester) or a liquid polymer solution (e.g., in the case of dissolved cellulose to produce regenerated cellulose fibers); (b) doping the liquid or molten polymer or liquid polymer solution with 0.5% to 10% by weight of particles; (c) forming fibers from the particle-doped polymer; (d) removing a portion of the surface layer of the fibers to expose the particles to the external environment; and (e) weaving or knitting the fibers to produce a textile capable of adsorbing water vapor.

[0212] In a second embodiment of the seventh aspect, the fiber of the first embodiment has a cross-sectional aspect ratio of about 1-2.

[0213] In a third embodiment of the seventh aspect, the particles of the first embodiment or the second embodiment are (a) present in a concentration of 250 to 20,000 parts per million, or (b) uniformly distributed throughout the cross section of the fiber up to and including the surface of the fiber.

[0214] In a fourth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the average diameter of the particles of any one of the first to third embodiments is 0.01 to 0.2 of the average diameter of the fibers.

[0215] In a fifth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the particles of any one of the first to fourth embodiments are capable of absorbing at least 10% by weight of water.

[0216] In a sixth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth embodiments comprises a synthetic monomer.

[0217] In a seventh embodiment of the seventh aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to sixth embodiments comprises ethylene terephthalate monomers.

[0218] In an eighth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to seventh embodiments comprises a polyester.

[0219] In a ninth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to eighth embodiments is formed by melt extrusion of a liquid or molten polymer.

[0220] In a tenth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth embodiments comprises a naturally occurring monomer.

[0221] In an eleventh embodiment of the seventh aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth and tenth embodiments comprises D-glucose monomers.

[0222] In a twelfth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the polymer of any one of the first to fifth and tenth to eleventh embodiments comprises cellulose.

[0223] In a thirteenth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to fifth and tenth to twelfth embodiments is formed by wet spinning a liquid polymer solution.

[0224] In a fourteenth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the particles of any one of the first to thirteenth embodiments have an average diameter of 0.2 μm to 50 μm.

[0225] In a fifteenth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the portion of the surface layer of the fiber removed in any one of the first to fourteenth embodiments has a thickness of about 0.1 to 10 times the average diameter of the particle.

[0226] In a sixteenth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the weight of the surface layer of the fiber removed in any one of the first to fifteenth embodiments is 5% to 50% of the weight of the fiber before removing the layer.

[0227] In a seventeenth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the fiber of any one of the first to sixteenth embodiments is a staple fiber having an odor activity value (OAV) of at least 15.

[0228] In an eighteenth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the particles of any one of the first to seventeenth embodiments have a surface area of ​​greater than 10 square meters per gram.

[0229] In a nineteenth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the particles of any one of the first to eighteenth embodiments comprise a zeolite.

[0230] In a twentieth embodiment of the seventh aspect, the particles of any one of the first to nineteenth embodiments comprise activated carbon.

[0231] In a twenty-first embodiment of the seventh aspect, the particles of any one of the first to twentieth embodiments do not comprise silver or silver ions.

[0232] In a twenty-second embodiment of the seventh aspect, a part of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by alkali weight reduction processing.

[0233] In a 23rd embodiment of the seventh aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-second embodiments is removed by treating the fiber with 5% to 25% NaOH, LiOH, or KOH at about 80°C to 100°C for about 15 to 45 minutes.

[0234] In a twenty-fourth embodiment of the seventh aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by enzymatic digestion.

[0235] In a twenty-fifth embodiment of the seventh aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by mercerization.

[0236] In a twenty-sixth embodiment of the seventh aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by laser etching.

[0237] In a twenty-seventh embodiment of the seventh aspect, a portion of the surface layer of the fiber of any one of the first to twenty-first embodiments is removed by plasma etching.

[0238] In a 28th embodiment of the seventh aspect, the woven fabric of any one of the 1st to 27th embodiments adsorbs sufficient water vapor to reduce humidity near the skin of a subject wearing the textile.

[0239] In a 29th embodiment of the seventh aspect, the woven fabric of any one of the 1st to 28th embodiments reduces the sensible temperature near the skin of a subject wearing the woven fabric by 0.5°C to 15°C.

[0240] Example 1: Weight Loss material A 75 / 48 / 1 filament polyester yarn doped with molecularly adsorbed zeolite particles and manufactured by Huvis Corporation (Seoul, Korea) (DY820, 12 / 9 / 2014) was used as the test sample. The same spool of yarn was used for all samples.

[0241] experiment Yarn samples from the same spool of yarn were taken and treated with a 10% w / w NaOH solution at 90°C for various periods of time. The longer the treatment, the more polyester was removed from the yarn. The dry weight of the yarn bundles was measured before and after treatment. Weight loss is expressed as a percentage. It was desired to produce samples with 0%, 5%, 10%, and 50% weight loss. The actual amount of weight loss was determined for each sample. Each sample was tested for butane adsorption and ash percentage. Butane adsorption is a measure of the amount of additive surface area exposed. The higher the value, the more surface area is exposed.

[0242] result Table 3 summarizes the samples produced, the actual weight loss, butane adsorption value (OAV), and the percentage of OAV changed. [Table 3]

[0243] Referring to Table 5, the OAV values ​​of all samples are statistically different at p<0.10, except for the difference between the 10% weight loss sample and the 50% weight loss sample.

[0244] SEM images of the surface of each of the different weight-reduced filaments were collected and are shown in Figures 4-7. Figure 4 shows an SEM of the control yarn. Note that the yarn surface is smooth with occasional exposed particles. These particles are either molecular adsorbed particles or TiO2. Figure 5 shows a 5%-reduced sample. This sample has clear depressions created by the removal of the polyester. Note that the depressions have formed around the particles, potentially exposing more of the particle's surface area. This strengthens the yarn, making the particles more effective, as measured by OAV. Figure 6 shows a 10%-reduced sample. Note the increased depressions and rougher surface.

[0245] Figure 7 shows the 50% weight loss sample. Although the surface is significantly rougher, the OAV value is not statistically greater. This could be because particles have either been removed or else more of the particle surface is exposed.

[0246] conclusion The NaOH weight loss treatment exposes a larger molecular adsorption particle surface area as measured by OAV, which follows a linear trend between 0% and 13% weight loss, with a 50% weight loss showing no increase in OAV compared to the 10% sample in this example.

[0247] Example 2: Sensible temperature test background Human comfort is directly correlated to the humidity and temperature perceived next to the skin. Measuring perceived temperature is one way to measure the impact of clothing on human comfort. See Steadman, R.G.; "The Assessment of Sultriness. Part I: A Temperature-Humidity Index Based on Human Physiology and Clothing Science"; Journal of Applied Meteorology and Climatology; July 1979; 861. To accurately determine the impact of clothing on comfort, direct measurements of humidity and temperature next to the skin (under the clothing) should be made, rather than relying solely on fabric physical property tests. While fabric physical property tests such as AATCC 200 and 201 can be used to measure fabric properties, care should be taken when using these tests to understand overall comfort. See Wojciechowska, I.; "Challenges in Moisture Management Testing"; AATCC Review; Vol. 18, No. 2, p. 31. Because textile property tests focus on one aspect of a fabric, they must be used in conjunction with several other tests and field trials to fully understand how fabrics affect comfort. Direct measurements of humidity and temperature next to the skin better simulate real-life conditions and more accurately measure human comfort than physical property tests of textiles.

[0248] Previous studies measured the difference in perceived temperature between various clothing systems with and without fibers containing molecular-adsorbing particles. (Sensible temperature is the effect of humidity on temperature, which predicts "how it will feel" when wearing the test clothing system.) These studies measured temperature and humidity under the garments in a controlled environment where the amount of work performed by subjects was adjusted to create a humidity load. The inclusion of weight-reduced fibers containing molecular-adsorbing particles was found to reduce the increase in perceived temperature and increase the subjects' comfort range. In this example, two thobe test garments were used, one containing fibers doped with molecular-adsorbing particles and the other without particles. Sensible temperature was determined under each thobe at various heat-generating work rates in a controlled environment.

[0249] sample Two thoves were made from similar fabrics, except that one fabric contained weight-reduced particle-doped fiber (experimental fabric) and the other fabric contained weight-reduced fiber without particle doping (control fabric). The fabrics in both thoves were similar in construction, weight, and breathability.

[0250] An experimental thove fabric was woven (115 x 94 count) containing 50% particle-doped polyester (weft), 45% polyester at 40 / 1, and 5% Tufcel (warp) at 133 g / m 2 The weight loss was 6%.

[0251] A control thove fabric was woven (115x94 count) containing 50% polyester (weft), 45% polyester at 40 / 1, and 5% Tufcel (warp) at 139 g / m 2 The weight loss was 6%.

[0252] test Testing was performed in a climate-controlled room set at 28°C and 30% relative humidity. The temperature, humidity, and operating conditions were selected to generate a humidity load without producing excessive liquid sweat. This allowed testing of the sweat vapor load performance of the garment. One subject was used during testing of both systems.

[0253] The subjects wore both thobes over the same lightweight mesh shirt. Fourteen sensors were attached to the back of the shirt, and the thobes were worn over the shirt and sensors. Subjects were allowed to equilibrate to room conditions for 30 minutes before testing, and then the sensors began recording temperature and humidity for 60 minutes.

[0254] Subjects rested for 5 minutes, pedaled at 80 watts for 10 minutes, rested for 10 minutes, pedaled at 90 watts for 10 minutes, rested for 10 minutes, pedaled at 100 watts for 10 minutes, and then rested for a final 5 minutes. Subjects rested for 2 hours between the morning and afternoon tests.

[0255] Humidity production in test subjects was found to vary depending on the time of day due to human circadian rhythms. Tests were conducted simultaneously over two days to account for variations in humidity production throughout the day. The data presented in Figure 8 are the average of sensors for a given system tested in the morning and afternoon.

[0256] result The perceived temperature scale was originally created to help warn people of potential health problems caused by heat. It can also be used to understand the effects of both humidity and temperature underneath clothing. This is because the calculation takes into account cooling from evaporation of sweat and the effect of humidity on evaporation. This calculation determines a "feels like" temperature that people can easily relate to the scale.

[0257] Sensors measuring temperature and humidity under the tobe were collected for both tobe tests. Figure 8 shows the average perceived temperature over the 60-minute test for the experimental and control tobes. The experimental tobe (with molecular adsorption particles) always felt cooler compared to the control tobe (without molecular adsorption particles). This was 6.9°C cooler, with an average difference of 3.7°C, and 24% of the tests were over 5.0°C cooler. Note that at the 58-minute mark, the tester removed the control tobe, resulting in a drop in temperature and humidity. This value was excluded from the analysis.

[0258] Additionally, the test subject began to produce liquid sweat at the 12-minute mark while wearing the control tobe. (Notably, no liquid sweat was detected during the entire 60-minute test while wearing the experimental tobe.) The sensor ceases readings when it becomes wet. These sensors are designed to measure humidity, not liquid water. Wet sensors increase measurement "noise" and do not accurately measure the microclimate. Therefore, the sensor that determines wetness was excluded from both data sets.

[0259] conclusion Temperature and humidity were measured in the subjects' microclimate under the tobe. The perceived temperature was calculated for systems with (experimental) and without (control) particle-doped yarn. The experimental tobe was up to 6.9°C cooler than the control tobe, with an average difference of 3.7°C when heat was generated by controlled work. Furthermore, the experimental tobe was cooler than a tobe (second control) made from fibers containing molecularly adsorbed particles but without weight loss. The second control tobe was approximately 1°C cooler than these control tobes. Thus, weight loss provides an additional significant advantage in relative cooling and / or heat management. The experimental tobe significantly improved perceived comfort and prevented the subjects from developing liquid sweat, whereas users began to develop liquid sweat at 12 minutes in the control tobe.

[0260] Those skilled in the art will understand that the features and embodiments of the present invention, and the features and embodiments of the method steps of the present invention, can be used together to create further embodiments of the present invention. While the present invention has been described in detail in connection with specific embodiments, it is to be understood that the present invention is not limited to the above-disclosed embodiments. Rather, those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions, or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described, but which are commensurate with the spirit and scope of the present invention. The specific embodiments should be construed as illustrative, not limiting.

Claims

1. 1. An article of manufacture comprising: a polymer having a surface and including a plurality of particles embedded within said polymer capable of adsorbing water, wherein 5% to 50% by weight of said surface of said polymer has been removed to expose a subset of said plurality of particles to an external environment.

2. 10. The article of manufacture of claim 1, wherein the plurality of particles comprises a zeolite.

3. 3. The article of manufacture of claim 1 or 2, wherein the polymer further comprises TiO2.

4. 3. The article of manufacture of claim 1 or 2, wherein the polymer does not contain silver or silver ions.

5. 3. The article of manufacture of claim 1 or 2, wherein the polymer comprises a synthetic polymer.

6. 6. The article of manufacture of claim 5, wherein the synthetic polymer is a polyester.

7. The article of manufacture of claim 1 , wherein the polymer comprises cellulose.

8. 3. The article of manufacture of claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of particles are present in the polymer at a concentration of 0.1% to 2% by weight.

9. 3. The article of manufacture according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the article of manufacture is a fiber.

10. 10. The article of manufacture of claim 9, wherein the fibers form a yarn comprising two or more fibers.

11. 10. The article of manufacture of claim 9, wherein the fiber is a monofilament.

12. 3. The article of manufacture of claim 1 or 2, wherein the article of manufacture is a woven fabric comprising a plurality of fibers or yarns.

13. one or more particles of the plurality of particles have a wavelength of 700 to 1500 cm as measured by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). －１ 3. The article of manufacture according to claim 1, wherein the article of manufacture absorbs infrared light in the region of

14. 10. The product of claim 9 having an ash content of about 0.5% to 1.2% by weight and an OAV of 15 or greater.

15. 1. A method for making fibers, said method comprising: a. providing a liquid polymer or a liquid polymer solution; b. doping the liquid polymer or liquid polymer solution with 0.1% to 2% by weight of particles to produce a particle-doped polymer, wherein the particles are capable of adsorbing water; c. forming the fibers from the particle-doped polymer; and removing a portion of a surface layer of said fiber to expose a subset of said particles to the external environment.

16. 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the particles are (a) present in a concentration of 250 to 20,000 parts per million, or (b) uniformly distributed throughout the cross section of the fiber up to and including the surface of the fiber.

17. 17. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein the average diameter of the particles is 0.01 to 0.2 of the diameter of the fibers.

18. 17. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein the polymer comprises synthetic monomers.

19. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the synthetic polymer comprises a polyester.

20. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the fibers are formed by melt extrusion of the liquid or molten polymer.

21. 17. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein the polymer comprises naturally occurring monomers.

22. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the natural polymer comprises cellulose.

23. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein the fiber is formed by wet-spinning the liquid polymer solution.

24. 17. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein the particles have an average particle diameter of 0.2 to 50 microns, inclusive.

25. 17. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein the portion of the surface layer of the fiber that is removed (a) has a thickness of about 0.1 to 10 times the average diameter of the particles, or (b) has a weight of 5% to 50% of the weight of the fiber before removing the layer.

26. 17. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein the fibers form a multifilament yarn or staple fiber having an odor activity value (OAV) of at least 15.

27. 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the ash content of the fibers is between 0.5% and 1.2% by weight.

28. 17. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein the particles have a surface area greater than 10 square meters per gram.

29. The particles comprise zeolite and optionally TiO ２ and does not contain silver or silver ions.

30. 17. The method of claim 15 or 16, wherein the portion of the surface layer is removed by alkaline weight reduction, enzymatic digestion, mercerization, laser etching, plasma etching, or mechanical removal.

31. 31. The method of claim 30, wherein the portion of the surface layer of the fiber is removed by treating the fiber with 5-25% NaOH, LiOH, or KOH at about 80°C to 100°C for about 15-45 minutes.

32. A fiber produced by the method of any one of claims 15 to 31.

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