fabric

Abstract

The present invention relates to textiles comprising non-regenerated microfibrillated cellulose in the form of fibrous microfilaments. Additionally, the present invention relates to methods for preparing and using such textiles and / or monofilaments.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] In textiles, natural fibers such as cotton, linen and hemp offer a more sustainable solution compared to synthetic materials, reducing the environmental impact. [Background technology]

[0002] In some applications, fibrous monofilaments can replace, for example, cotton. Large-scale cotton cultivation requires large amounts of water resources. Cotton cultivation is widespread in areas where both water and food are already scarce. Cotton cultivation reduces the agricultural area available for food production, increases water consumption, and exacerbates food and water supply problems. Cotton use is unsustainable, and alternative fiber sources are needed. The properties and production methods of previously proposed paper yarns do not allow for the replacement of cotton. Washing fabrics requires water, heat, and detergent, which are often harmful to the environment.

[0003] FI20226179 describes nonwoven fabrics containing non-regenerated microfibrillated cellulose and methods for producing them. FI20226181 describes fibrous monofilaments and methods for producing them.

[0004] There is a need to provide fabrics that provide improved user comfort and are easy to keep clean without extensive cleaning with high temperatures or environmentally harmful detergents.

[0005] There is also a continuing need to find products that can be produced as sustainable fabrics on an industrial scale, thereby reducing environmental impact, land use, and water consumption. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The present invention at least alleviates one or more of the above-mentioned drawbacks or problems associated with existing solutions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] It is an object of the present invention to provide a fabric that has properties suitable for multiple applications and is environmentally sustainable. A further object is to provide a method for producing the fibrous monofilament and fabric.

[0008] The object of the invention is characterized by what is presented in the independent claims. Some advantageous embodiments of the invention are presented in the dependent claims.

[0009] One advantage of the fabrics discussed herein is that their water footprint can be significantly lower compared to existing solutions. The use of pulp-based fibers also allows for the utilization and reuse of wood, pulp, and pulp waste. Furthermore, the water usage of wood-based fabric fibers is significantly lower compared to, for example, cotton. Another advantage of the fabrics and fibrous monofilaments discussed in this disclosure is their good biodegradability.

[0010] One further advantage is that the fabrics described herein have an improved ability to reduce sweat odor in the fabric. In addition, materials comprising the fibrous monofilaments described herein have a softer hand, better thermal properties, and a reduced tendency to gray when compared to cotton. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1a] 1 shows a graphical representation of the heat resistance properties of fabrics according to the invention in view of a reference fabric. [Figure 1b] 1 shows a graphical representation of the heat resistance properties of fabrics according to the invention in view of a reference fabric. [Figure 1c] 1 shows a graphical representation of the heat resistance properties of fabrics according to the invention in view of a reference fabric. [Figure 1d] 1 shows a graphical representation of the heat resistance properties of fabrics according to the invention in view of a reference fabric. [Figure 1e]1 shows a graphical representation of the heat resistance properties of fabrics according to the invention in view of a reference fabric. [Figure 2] 1 shows a graphical representation of the heat resistance properties of fabrics according to the invention in view of a reference fabric. [Figure 3] 1 shows a graphical representation of the water vapor resistant properties of fabrics according to the invention in relation to a reference fabric. [Figure 4] 1 shows a graphical comparison of wash results with different CMC dosages for a fabric of the present invention and cotton used as a reference. [Figure 5] 1 shows a comparison of washed samples with different CMC dosages for a fabric of the present invention and cotton used as a reference. [Figure 6] 1 shows a graphical representation of the reduction in sweat odor intensity of fabrics composed of non-regenerated MFC monofilaments compared to cotton fabrics. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] In this disclosure, percentage values ​​relating to amounts or proportions of raw materials are weight percentages (wt %) of the dry monofilament unless otherwise indicated.

[0013] Plant materials are constructed by a matrix formed by cellulose fibers, which also contain lignin and hemicellulose. The cellulose fibers that form such a matrix are fibril bundles, which are composed of microfibrils. Through the fibrillation process, the cellulose fibers are separated into a three-dimensional network of microfibrils with a larger surface area. These entangled fibrils are called microfibrillated cellulose (MFC). The width of the entangled fibrils in MFC can be 50 nanometers to 2 micrometers, and the length or longitudinal dimension can be 100 nanometers to 500 micrometers, for example, 100 nanometers to 200 micrometers.

[0014] In the context of the present disclosure, the method for producing MFC is not limited. MFC can be produced from cellulose fibers using methods known in the art, for example, through high pressure, high temperature, and high-speed impact homogenization. The homogenization process is used to exfoliate or disrupt the cell walls of the fibers and liberate their substructure, fibrils and microfibrils. Enzymatic and / or mechanical pretreatment of wood fibers can also be used.

[0015] In this disclosure, the expressions "non-regenerated cellulose" or "native cellulose" refer to cellulose or cellulose fibrils or fibers that have not undergone chemical or physical modification of their macromolecular structure. Non-regenerated MFC as discussed herein is substantially non-regenerated and is composed primarily of the crystalline structure of cellulose I. Cellulose I has the structure I α and I β For example, man-made cellulose fibers commonly used in textile applications are regenerated and their crystalline structure is primarily other than cellulose I. The conversion of cellulose I to cellulose II (or other forms such as cellulose III or cellulose IV) is irreversible. Thus, these forms are stable and cannot be converted back to cellulose I.

[0016] In the context of the present disclosure, cellulose can be derived from any plant-based material. Plant-based raw materials can be woody or non-woody. Woody materials can be based on conifers such as spruce, pine, fir, larch, Douglas fir, or hemlock, or hardwoods such as birch, aspen, poplar, alder, eucalyptus, or acacia, or any mixture of the above. Non-woody materials can be cotton, hemp, flax, sisal, jute, kenaf, bamboo, peat, or coconut. Non-woody natural cellulose fibers can be derived from agricultural residues, grasses, or other plant materials such as straw, leaves, bark, seeds, shells, flowers, vegetables, or fruits. Woody plants have good availability, a small environmental impact, and good fiber quality. The above applies to both non-regenerated cellulose and also to regenerated and processed forms of cellulose.

[0017] Fabrics comprising or composed of non-regenerated MFC monofilaments have a significantly lower carbon footprint than conventional textile materials, for example, 72% lower than conventional textile materials (emissions from a third-party assessment conducted by Clonet). The production of such monofilaments uses 99.9% less water than conventional cotton.

[0018] The inventive fabrics disclosed herein include: A fabric comprising fibrous monofilaments of non-regenerated microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) is characterized in that the monofilaments are: a. 80 to 98 wt% non-regenerated microfibrillated cellulose (MFC); b. 2 to 20% by weight of dispersant(s) selected from carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose (EHEC), methyl cellulose (MC), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC), methyl ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose (MEHEC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), ethyl cellulose (EC), and starch, or any mixture thereof; The weight percentage is calculated from the total weight of the fibrous monofilament.

[0019] The fabric may comprise at least 20% by weight of fibrous monofilaments and one or more additional fibrous materials selected from non-wood-derived cellulose fiber(s), man-made cellulose fiber(s), and thermoplastic fibers, and any mixtures thereof. In one embodiment, the fabric comprises at least 30%, at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, or at least 95% by weight of fibrous monofilaments. In one embodiment, the fabric is composed of non-regenerated MFC monofilaments.

[0020] The fibrous monofilament portion is biodegradable and has all the advantages discussed herein in relation to monofilaments. Such filaments have a small environmental footprint. Such monofilament-based materials can have good absorption properties. They can be good at insulating. Such filament-based materials have good odor control and reduction. Such monofilament-based materials are easy to clean by washing.

[0021] The fabric may be woven or knitted.

[0022] Dispersants are required during the manufacturing process of fibrous monofilaments to improve the separation of MFC fibrils and prevent their settling or aggregation. The dispersant can be any anionic hydrophilic polymer. In one example, the dispersant is carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and / or anionic polyacrylamide (aPAM). Alternatively, the dispersant can be any of hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose (EHEC), methyl cellulose (MC), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC), methyl ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose (MEHEC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), ethyl cellulose (EC), and starch, or any combination thereof. The dispersant can also have an effect on the shear strength of the fibrous monofilaments. Anionic polyacrylamide (aPAM) can also be used as a dispersant, either alone or in combination with another dispersant.

[0023] Dispersants have an effect on the shear strength of the fibrous monofilament. Dispersants can be used in an amount of 0.5 to 20 wt. % of the total weight of the dry fibrous monofilament. In one embodiment, the dispersant is used in an amount of 5 to 20 wt. %, or 2 to 16 wt. %, or about 13 to 16 wt. %, e.g., about 14 wt. % of the total weight of the fibrous monofilament.

[0024] For example, CMC may be used in an amount of 0.5 to 20% by weight of the total weight of the dry fibrous monofilament. In one embodiment, CMC is used in an amount of 5 to 20% by weight or about 10% by weight of the total weight of the material fibrous monofilament. In one embodiment, CMC is used in an amount of 4 to 5% by weight of the total weight of the material fibrous monofilament. In one embodiment, CMC is used in an amount of 14 to 16% by weight of the total weight of the fibrous monofilament.

[0025] The strength additives may be dry strength agents such as polyacrylamide resins (amphoteric / anionic / cationic), starch, vegetable gums, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and latex, or may be wet strength agents such as cationic glyoxylated resins, polyamidoamine-epichlorohydrin resins (PAE), polyamine-epichlorohydrin resins, urea formaldehyde (UFH), epoxide resins, glyoxylated polyacrylamide (G-PAM), polyethylene oxide (PEO), and one or more suitable crosslinkers such as polyurethanes (PU) or durable water repellents (DWR) known in the art.

[0026] Some chemicals have an effect on, for example, dispersion and strength properties. If desired, for example, two different qualities of CMC can be used.

[0027] Most simply, the fabric may contain only MFC and CMC, thereby being completely and readily biodegradable.

[0028] The strength agent can be G-Pam. The amount of G-Pam can be 0.5 to 3 wt. % of the total weight of the fibrous monofilament, for example, 2 wt. % of the total weight of the dry fibrous monofilament. The use of G-Pam can modify the wet strength level from temporary to permanent.

[0029] The strength agent can be anionic polyacrylamide (aPAM). The amount of APAM can be 0.5-5% by weight of the total dry weight of the fibrous monofilament, for example, 2-4% by weight of the dry weight of the fibrous monofilament. The higher the amount of aPAM, the better the elasticity of the fabric. aPAM is a super-flocculant that can also be used as an additional dispersant. It improves the alignment of fibers in suspension during extrusion onto a solid surface through a small nozzle. aPAM also has an effect on suspension rheology.

[0030] To obtain the desired filament properties, strength additives, particularly wet strength additives, must be cured (activated) by heat treatment. Curing conditions can be optimized based on the additive and the desired properties of the final product (filament, yarn, fabric). For example, when PAE is used as a wet strength agent in the monofilaments of the fabrics described herein, wet strength and elongation after curing are increased.

[0031] Tenacity is the conventional measure of the strength of a fiber or yarn. It is usually defined as the ultimate (breaking) force (in grams-force) of the fiber / yarn divided by its linear density. Tenacity is often expressed in cN / (d)tex. Linear density is a value that expresses the weight of the fiber / yarn in grams per 1000 meters of fiber / yarn (tex) or grams per 10,000 meters of fiber / yarn (dtex).

[0032] The hydrophobic adhesive can be alkyl ketene dimer (AKD, alkaline or neutral size), alkenyl succinic anhydride (ASA, size), rosin (acid size), natural wax, and modified sunflower oil adhesive (MSOHO), or any mixture thereof.

[0033] The hydrophobic adhesive may be AKD. The amount may be 0.5 to 10 wt. % of the total weight of the dry fibrous monofilament, for example, 2 to 5 wt. % of the total weight of the dry fibrous monofilament. As a hydrophobic adhesive, AKD reduces the absorbency characteristics of the monofilament or fabric described herein. AKD may also increase the strength of the monofilament or fabric described herein.

[0034] The fibrous monofilament may contain 0.0 to 18 wt. %, 0.05 to 15 wt. %, preferably 0.1 to 10 wt. % of additive(s).

[0035] The moisture sensitivity of hydrophilic MFC can be reduced by incorporating a hydrophobic component. In the context of the present disclosure, the hydrophobicity is introduced with at least one of natural waxes, thermoplastic resins, sizes, and natural rubbers.

[0036] The man-made cellulose fiber(s) may be selected from lyocell, viscose, modal, acetate, and recycled textile waste fibers, or any mixture thereof. In one embodiment, the man-made fiber is lyocell. Thin and long man-made cellulose fibers may improve the strength (e.g., estimated as elasticity, strength, durability, burst strength, etc.) of the fabric or yarn(s). In addition to the agents discussed above, for example, pigments and softeners may be used. Lyocell and viscose are preferred. The lyocell process is environmentally friendly. Lyocell fibers improve drapeability and provide good hand feel and softness.

[0037] The non-wood-derived cellulose fiber(s), man-made cellulose fiber(s), thermoplastic fibers, or any mixture thereof can be used as separate yarns, or they can be used to form yarns blended with cellulose monofilaments and another fiber.

[0038] The thermoplastic fibers may be selected from polypropylene, polyamide, polyester, polypropylene / polyester, and bicomponent short cut fibers. Thermoplastic fibers may improve the durability of the fabric and provide elongation and static properties.

[0039] The non-wood-derived cellulose fibers can be selected from cotton, hemp, flax, sisal, jute, kenaf, bamboo, peat, and coconut, or a mixture thereof, in particular, cotton, flax, and hemp, or a mixture thereof. Non-wood cellulose fibers can improve the durability of the fabric. In addition, non-wood cellulose fibers can be used to adjust the absorption properties.

[0040] Wool or silk can also be used in the fabric, with wool being particularly useful when insulating properties are desired.

[0041] The present disclosure also relates to fibrous, non-regenerated microfibrillated cellulose-based monofilaments. The monofilaments may comprise or consist of non-regenerated microfibrillated cellulose (MFC) and dispersant(s). The properties may be modified as discussed above in relation to the fabric.

[0042] As used herein, the term "fibrous monofilament" refers to a continuous length of individual fibrils grouped and extending generally along the longitudinal dimension of a cellulose monofilament. The fibers can be intertwined with one another to form a permanent monofilament structure. Monofilaments cannot be opened or broken down. The fibers grouped together cannot be separated into substructures, such as fiber ribbons or strips, for example, via mechanical cutting, grinding, or chemical separation means. Disintegration of a fibrous monofilament results in only individual fibrils. A fibrous monofilament can comprise a continuous length of several meters or kilometers. The term "monofilament" refers to a single-strand filament produced by extruding a polymer suspension. A fibrous monofilament can also be referred to as a monofilament fiber.

[0043] The fibrous monofilaments described herein may have a tenacity of at least 1 cN / dTex, or at least 1.5 cN / dTex, or 2 cN / dTex, when measured according to the ASTM 3822 / D3822M-14 standard.

[0044] In the longitudinal direction, the monofilaments described herein may have a thickness of about 5-30 μm and a width of about 30-300 μm (the cross section may be flattened). The high cross-sectional aspect ratio of the monofilaments affects the flexibility of the monofilaments. The cross-sectional aspect ratio may be 30-300 μm: 2-30 μm, 30-200 μm: 1-6 μm, or 30-120 μm: 5-10 μm. The monofilaments described herein comprise "non-regenerated cellulose." Note that the desired properties depend on the field of use.

[0045] In pulp and papermaking, the usual order of adding ingredients (added to an aqueous solution) to form an aqueous suspension is MFC, strength agent (e.g., PAE), dispersant (e.g., CMC), and in subsequent stage(s), possible hydrophobic agent and further strength agent. Possible crosslinking agents should be added as early as possible to allow the crosslinking reaction to proceed.

[0046] The above order can be used when producing the monofilaments described herein. First, MFC and then the dispersant can be added to the aqueous suspension, followed by the strength agent, optional hydrophobic adhesive, and possible further additives, such as further strength agents, depending on the application. One exemplary recipe with a suitable addition order is MFC + CMC + PAE + AKD + ​​aPAM. Note that certain crosslinker activity may require contact with the fiber already in the initial state. Alternatively, CMC (or other dispersant) can be added before MFC.

[0047] Those skilled in the art can use their general knowledge and materials provided by chemical manufacturers to determine suitable pH parameters for activity of strength agents and adhesives.

[0048] It should be noted that in the simplest embodiment, it is possible to produce fibrous monofilaments and / or fabrics that comprise or consist solely of dispersing agents such as MFC and CMC, in which case the amount of CMC is at least 4% by weight of the total dry weight of the monofilament, preferably at least 8%, 10%, 12%, or even 14% by weight.

[0049] The fibrous monofilaments described herein are made in an aqueous suspension that includes water, non-regenerated cellulose fibers, and at least one dispersing agent, typically a cellulose derivative.

[0050] Fibrous monofilament: 800-1700 kg / m 3 , e.g., 1500 kg / m 3 The fibrous monofilaments may have a linear mass density of 3 to 100 grams per 1000 meters, which is 2 to 10 dtex, or preferably a linear mass density of 3 to 10 dtex. The fibrous monofilaments may have a tenacity of 0.5 to 3.0 cN / dtex, as measured according to ASTM 3822 / D3822M-14.

[0051] It is also possible to include other wood-based pulp fibers, or other short natural cellulose fibers such as cotton or flax, or other short man-made cellulose fibers, such as regenerated cellulose fibers such as viscose, cupro, or lyocell. When present in a monofilament containing non-regenerated MFC, the additional fibers considered must be refined to substantially the same size as the MFC.

[0052] In the production of fibrous monofilaments, an aqueous suspension is directed (extruded) through a small nozzle, where the fibers are well aligned (oriented) with the flow. The nozzle delivers the aqueous suspension to a solid surface, followed by drying to obtain fibrous monofilaments. The fibrous monofilaments thus produced are continuous, but can be post-processed into shorter lengths by any suitable method known in the art. Chemical post-processing, such as dyeing, is also possible. The thickness of the fibrous monofilaments can be influenced, at least in part, by adapting the production speed, aqueous suspension concentration, and nozzle geometry. Short cellulose fibril filaments and structures tend to disintegrate in water. This characteristic also enhances their biodegradability.

[0053] The properties of the fibrous monofilaments and fabrics can be tailored. For example, thickness and strength characteristics can be adapted to the application and use. Also, properties such as absorbency, softness, flexibility, sustainability, wear durability, shape stability, elasticity / inelasticity, and / or combinability with other materials or yarns can have an impact on the usability of the fibrous monofilaments. Methods and chemicals known in the textile industry can be used. Waxes can be used to modify the softness and absorbency of the filaments and / or fabrics. AKD as a hydrophobic agent reduces absorbency, increases strength and elasticity, and reduces fabric softness when used in large quantities.

[0054] The present disclosure provides a method for manufacturing a fabric, comprising: (a) providing a fibrous monofilament, typically cut into staple fibers; (b) forming a yarn by spinning; (c) weaving by known methods to obtain a fabric; or (d) knitting by known methods, optionally at low speed, to obtain a fabric.

[0055] The general steps for producing a yarn comprising a fibrous monofilament and optionally other fiber(s) are as follows. ■ Open the bale (if packed fiber) or multiple bales or desired fiber ■ Form the desired blend (unless pure monofilament is desired), e.g., 70% cotton and 30% fibrous monofilament (often in the form of staple fiber) ■ Carding to obtain sliver ■ Pin drafting is performed to obtain parallel fibers, adjust the strength of the sliver and uniform sliver ■Roving ■ Spinning yarn; fine yarn usable in accordance with the present disclosure may have an Ne of 30, while thicker yarns may have an Ne of 24, 18, or 12; Ne=590.5 / tex ■ Ply, if desired. Typically, warp yarns are plyed to provide sufficient strength and tenacity. A 30 / 24 count yarn is typically suitable for knitted garment fabrics. For woven fabrics, e.g., Ne30 / 2 is suitable.

[0056] Those skilled in the art will be able to select suitable yarns based on the fabric construction and desired properties such as square weight.

[0057] In one embodiment, the fabric or fibrous monofilament contains only dispersing agents such as MFC and CMC, in which case the amount of CMC is at least 4% by weight, preferably at least 8%, 10%, 12%, or even 14% by weight of the total dry weight of the fabric or fibrous monofilament.

[0058] It should be understood that the embodiments provided in the above description are for illustrative purposes only, and that various changes and modifications are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. It should also be understood that the terminology used herein is for descriptive purposes and should not be regarded as limiting. Features described herein as separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Moreover, various features described herein in the context of a single embodiment may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination.

[0059] The present invention is illustrated below by means of examples, which are given for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of the invention. [Example]

[0060] Example 1. Properties of fibrous monofilaments using various recipes Monofilaments were formed as described in WO2018 / 115577A1, and the compositions of the monofilament samples are given in Table 1 below. [Table 1]

[0061] The samples were evaluated for processability, % elongation, strength (cN / dTex), filament width (μ), and gel strength (Pa).

[0062] Measurements were performed according to standard ASTM 3822 / D3822M-14 at RH 65% (+ / - 2%) and temperature 20°C (+ / - 2°C). The same standard was used in the following experiments unless otherwise stated.

[0063] result The results are shown in Figures 1a-1e and Table 2 below. [Table 2]

[0064] conclusion At its simplest, it has been shown that it is possible to produce sufficient quantities of monofilaments using only MFC and dispersant: Monofilaments containing only 4% by weight could be formed (spun) into monofilaments, while 14% by weight provided good strength, elongation, and processability.

[0065] Sample 5 demonstrates that even at 4 wt% CMC, the strength level of the reference sample is achieved when PEO and a-Pam are added, demonstrating that PEO alone (Sample 7) is not sufficient to provide strength.

[0066] Sample 3a shows that the CMC without a-Pam provides good rheology (gel strength), i.e., has sufficient dispersion properties.

[0067] Comparing Sample 68 with Sample 8, it can be seen that AKD reduces strength slightly, however AKD is a hydrophobic adhesive that plays a role in controlling water absorption.

[0068] In the compositions tested, PAE was required to obtain good wet strength, and only 2 wt. % results are shown. PEO was not significant in the properties tested here.

[0069] Example 2: Effect of HEC on monofilaments In this experiment, HEC was added to a monofilament recipe and shown to increase the elasticity of the monofilament. Table 3 below summarizes the recipes tested and the properties measured. Fibrous monofilaments were prepared as described in WO2018 / 115577. [Table 3]

[0070] For example, HEC has been shown to increase the elasticity of monofilaments.

[0071] Elasticity is a desirable property, especially in clothing fabrics.

[0072] Example 3. Performance Fabrics were prepared using conventional methods. The following fabrics were used for performance testing: 1. French terry, 67% cotton, 33% fibrous monofilament, 305gsm 2. French terry (reference fabric), 100% cotton, 390gsm 3.1x1 rib, 70% cotton, 30% fibrous monofilament, 135gsm 4.1x1 rib (reference fabric), 100% cotton, 185gsm 5. Single jersey (reference fabric), 100% cotton, 145gsm 6.2 / 2 twill, 79% cotton, 21% fibrous monofilament, 330gsm 7.3 / 1 twill (reference fabric), 98% cotton, 2% elastane, 320gsm 8. Plain weave, 74% cotton, 26% fibrous monofilament, 230gsm 9. Plain weave, 100% cotton, 220gsm

[0073] Thermal resistance was measured according to EN ISO 11092:2014. The results are shown in Figure 2. Fabrics of the same structure can be compared with each other, and square weight is not decisive (preliminary results for identical square weights highlight the thermal properties of fabrics with fibrous monofilaments. It was shown that when the fibrous monofilaments were only 30% and the square weight was lighter, a clear improvement in heat resistance was observed).

[0074] The water vapor resistance was measured according to EN ISO 11092:2014. The results with the fabrics containing fibrous monofilaments were at the same level as those with pure cotton.

[0075] The following standards were used for the measurements: AATCC 201(2014)-Drying speed

[0076] The results are shown in Figure 3 and Table 4 below. [Table 4]

[0077] Example 4. Anti-reattachment performance The fabric according to the invention was a twill with 100% cotton 40 / 2Nm in the warp and 60% fibrous monofilament / 40% lyocell 30 / 2Nm in the weft, and was compared with knitted cotton.

[0078] The cleaning tests were carried out by the Nouyron Aeaenekoski (Finland) R&D laboratory as follows: Instrumentation: A Copley Scientific Tergotometer and heavy-duty detergent formulations with and without high-quality detergent-specific CMC were used. The wash temperature was 25°C. A 60-minute wash cycle and hard water with 18° dH, 15 minutes rinse were used. Carbon black was used as the test stain without detergent.

[0079] Whiteness was measured before and after washing using a Minolta CM-3610d spectrophotometer and is given in CIE units.

[0080] result Fabrics containing non-regenerated MFC had whiter reference values, i.e., washed without CMC. A good anti-redeposition response was observed with fabrics containing MFC monofilaments already at low CMC dosages (5%). Fabrics with fibrous monofilaments were lighter than the references with CMC levels of 0 wt%, 0.5 wt%, and 1.0 wt%, as can be seen in Figure 4. When the CMC dosage was increased to 2 wt% of the formulation, whiteness was not improved compared to cotton, as can be seen in Figure 5.

[0081] Example 5: Odor prevention test Analytical tests for sweat odor reduction were conducted by Hohenstein Laboratories GmbH & Co. KG, Boenningheim, Germany. Fabrics composed of non-regenerated MFC were compared with 100% cotton fabrics.

[0082] To investigate the sweat odor reduction effect of fabrics, a defined amount of Hohenstein sweat odor simulant is applied to a fabric swatch (2 cm x 2 cm). The sample is then placed in a special odor bag to detect sweat odor at two time points (0 h and 1 h). After a 60-minute incubation period at 37°C in the sealed bag, the odor intensity of the evaporating sweat malodor is evaluated by trained panelists (according to the international standard of Maxeiner et al., 2009) using an olfactometric sampling unit in accordance with VDI 3882.

[0083] result Odor intensity scale according to VDI 3882 6 Extremely Strong 5 Very Strong 4 Strong 3 clear 3. Weak 1 Very weak 0 Not perceptible

[0084] The odor intensity of the samples was judged by panelists.

[0085] The average of the triplicate determinations is shown in FIG.

[0086] A reduction in sweat odor intensity of at least one intensity point can be determined for the test sample compared to the reference. If the average sweat odor intensity is at least one intensity point lower than the average for the reference (cotton) fabric, the product can be rated as "odor reducing."

Claims

1. A fabric comprising fibrous monofilaments of non-regenerated microfibrillated cellulose (MFC), the monofilaments comprising: a. 80-98 wt. % non-regenerated microfibrillated cellulose (MFC); b. 2-20% by weight of dispersant(s) selected from carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose (EHEC), methyl cellulose (MC), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC), methyl ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose (MEHEC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), ethyl cellulose (EC), and starch, or any mixture thereof; The fabric, wherein the weight percentage is calculated from the total weight of the fibrous monofilaments.

2. 10. The fabric of claim 1, comprising at least 20% by weight of fibrous monofilaments and one or more additional fibrous materials selected from non-wood-derived cellulose fiber(s), man-made cellulose fiber(s), and thermoplastic fibers, and any mixture thereof.

3. the non-wood-derived cellulose fiber(s) are selected from cotton, hemp, flax, sisal, jute, kenaf, bamboo, peat, and coconut, or mixtures thereof, such as cotton, flax, hemp, or mixtures thereof; and / or b. the man-made cellulose fiber(s) are selected from lyocell, viscose, modal, acetate, rayon, and recycled textile waste fibers, or any mixture thereof; and / or 3. The fabric of claim 1, wherein the thermoplastic fibers are selected from polypropylene, polyamide, polyester, polypropylene / polyester, and bicomponent short cut fibers.

4. 10. A fabric according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the fabric is woven or knitted.

5. 10. The fabric of claim 1, wherein the monofilament further comprises an additive selected from strength additives, hydrophobic adhesives, pigment(s), and / or other modifier(s).

6. 4. The fabric of claim 2 or 3, wherein the strength additive is a dry strength agent such as polyacrylamide resin (amphoteric / anionic / cationic), starch, vegetable gum, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), and latex, or a wet strength agent such as cationic glyoxylated resin, polyamidoamine-epichlorohydrin resin (PAE), polyamine-epichlorohydrin resin, urea formaldehyde (UFH), epoxide resin, and crosslinking agent.

7. 10. The fabric of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hydrophobic adhesive is selected from alkyl ketene dimer (AKD), alkenyl succinic anhydride (ASA), rosin, natural wax, and modified sunflower based adhesive (MSOHO).

8. 10. The fabric of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the strength additive is G-Pam in an amount of 0.5 to 3% by weight of the total weight of the fibrous monofilaments, for example 2% by weight of the total weight of the fibrous monofilaments.

9. 10. The fabric of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the strength agent is anionic polyacrylamide (aPAM) in an amount of 0.5 to 5% by weight of the total weight of the fibrous monofilaments, such as 2 to 4% by weight of the total weight of the fibrous monofilaments.

10. 10. The fabric of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the strength agent is PEO in an amount of 0.5 to 5% by weight of the total weight of the fibrous monofilaments.

11. 10. The fabric of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hydrophobic adhesive is AKD in an amount of 0.5 to 10% by weight of the total weight of the fibrous monofilaments, such as 2 to 5% by weight of the total weight of the fibrous monofilaments.

12. 1. A fibrous monofilament of non-regenerated microfibrillated cellulose (MFC), comprising: a. 80-98 wt. % non-regenerated microfibrillated cellulose (MFC); b. 2-20% by weight of dispersant(s) selected from carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose (EHEC), methyl cellulose (MC), hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose (HEMC), methyl ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose (MEHEC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), ethyl cellulose (EC), and starch, or any mixture thereof; A fibrous monofilament, wherein said weight percentage is calculated from the total weight of said fibrous monofilament.

Images