Threads, cloths, and clothing

Abstract

To provide a thread capable of effectively generating a surface potential of fabric and clothing having a low elongation, a fabric and clothing.SOLUTION: A thread has a large diameter with a total fineness of 90 dtex or more and includes an electric potential generation filament 10 for generating an electric potential with energy received from the outside.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to threads, fabrics, and clothing.

Background Art

[0002] A thread having a fiber that generates a surface potential by external energy is disclosed in Patent Document 1. Further, Patent Document 1 discloses that the thickness of the thread is 0.005 to 10 dtex (see claim 3 of Patent Document 1), and Patent Document 2 discloses that the elongation of the fabric is 10% (see claim 1 of Patent Document 2).

[0003] According to the thread described in Patent Document 1, it is possible to exhibit desired effects such as antibacterial, charging, or adsorption by generating a potential defined under predetermined conditions (see paragraph

[0008] of Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the present disclosure aims to provide yarns, fabrics, and garments that can effectively generate a surface potential in garments with low elongation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The inventors of this application focused on the fact that a "thread containing a potential-generating filament" generates an electric field when it receives external energy (such as tension or stress), thereby generating an electric potential, and that such an electric potential can produce antibacterial effects, for example.

[0008] Therefore, the yarn of this disclosure has a large diameter with a total fineness of 90 dtex or more and comprises a potential-generating filament that generates an electric potential when it receives energy from an external source.

[0009] The fabric of this disclosure comprises the above-mentioned threads.

[0010] The garment of this disclosure comprises the above-mentioned fabric. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to this disclosure, a surface potential can be effectively generated in yarns with low elongation. It should be noted that the effects described herein are merely illustrative and not limiting, and additional effects may exist. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] Figure 1(A) shows the structure of thread 1s (thread S), Figure 1(B) is a cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 1(A), and Figure 1(C) is a cross-sectional view along line BB in Figure 1(A). [Figure 2] Figures 2(A) and 2(B) show the relationship between the uniaxial stretching direction of polylactic acid, the potential direction, and the deformation of the potential-generating filament 10. [Figure 3]Figure 3(A) shows the structure of thread 1z (Z thread), Figure 3(B) is a cross-sectional view along line AA in Figure 3(A), and Figure 3(C) is a cross-sectional view along line BB in Figure 3(A). [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a thread comprising a dielectric 100 around a potential-generating filament 10. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a false-twist yarn manufacturing apparatus. [Figure 6] Figure 6(a) is a schematic diagram of the twisted yarn, Figure 6(b) is a schematic diagram of the yarn before entanglement treatment using an air jet device, and Figure 6(c) is a schematic diagram of the yarn after entanglement treatment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] The yarns, fabrics, and garments of this disclosure are described below. While the descriptions will be made with reference to the drawings as necessary, the illustrations are for illustrative purposes only to aid in understanding this disclosure, and their appearance and dimensional ratios may differ from those of the actual products. Furthermore, any numerical ranges mentioned herein are intended to include the lower and / or upper numerical values ​​themselves unless otherwise specified. For example, a numerical range of 1 to 10 may be interpreted as including both the lower limit of "1" and the upper limit of "10". Additionally, some numerical values ​​may be preceded by "approximately" or "to the extent of," meaning that these terms may include variations of a few percent, such as ±10 percent, ±5 percent, ±3 percent, ±2 percent, or ±1 percent.

[0014] -Explanation of the thread in this disclosure- The yarn of this disclosure will now be described. The yarn is "large diameter with a total fineness of 90 dtex or more" and comprises "potential generating filaments 10" (or fibers capable of forming an electric field by surface charge). There are no particular restrictions on the number of potential generating filaments 10; for example, the yarn of this disclosure may contain only one, two or more, 2 to 1000, preferably 10 to 800, and more preferably 20 to 600 potential generating filaments.

[0015] [Regarding the potential generating filament] First, the potential generating filament that constitutes the thread of the present disclosure will be described. In the present disclosure, the "potential generating filament" basically means, as described above, "a fiber (filament) that can generate electric charges by external energy (such as tension and / or stress, etc.) to form a potential (specifically, surface potential) and / or an electric field" (hereinafter, it may also be referred to as "potential generating fiber", "electric field forming filament", "electric field forming fiber", "charge generating fiber" or "charge generating filament"). As the potential generating filament, for example, the charge generating fiber described in Japanese Patent No. 6428979 may be used.

[0016] Examples of the "external energy" include, for example, an external force (hereinafter, it may also be referred to as "external force"), specifically, a force that causes deformation or distortion in the thread or the potential generating filament and / or a force applied in the axial direction of the thread or the potential generating filament. More specifically, external forces such as tension (for example, tensile force in the axial direction of the thread or the potential generating filament) and / or stress or strain force (tensile stress or tensile strain applied to the thread or the potential generating filament) and / or a force applied in the transverse direction of the thread or the potential generating filament can be mentioned.

[0017] The potential generating filament preferably comprises, for example, a material having a piezoelectric effect (polarization phenomenon due to an external force) or piezoelectricity (the property of generating a voltage when a mechanical strain is applied, or conversely generating a mechanical strain when a voltage is applied) (hereinafter, it may also be referred to as "piezoelectric material" or "piezoelectric body"). Among them, it is particularly preferable to use a fiber comprising a piezoelectric material (hereinafter, it may also be referred to as "piezoelectric fiber"). Since the piezoelectric fiber can form a potential by piezoelectricity, it does not require a power source and there is no risk of electric shock. Note that the lifespan of the piezoelectric material contained in the piezoelectric fiber is, for example, longer than the antibacterial effect by a drug or the like. Also, in such a piezoelectric fiber, the possibility of causing an allergic reaction is low.

[0018] The "piezoelectric material" can be used without particular limitation as long as it has the piezoelectric effect or piezoelectricity, and can be an inorganic material such as piezoelectric ceramics or an organic material such as a polymer.

[0019] The "piezoelectric material" (or "piezoelectric fiber") preferably comprises a "piezoelectric polymer". Examples of the "piezoelectric polymer" include a "piezoelectric polymer having pyroelectricity" and a "piezoelectric polymer not having pyroelectricity".

[0020] The "piezoelectric polymer having pyroelectricity" generally means a piezoelectric material composed of a polymer material that has pyroelectricity and can generate charges (or potential) on its surface only by applying a temperature change. Examples of such a piezoelectric polymer include polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Particularly, those that can generate charges (or potential) on their surface by the thermal energy of the human body are preferred.

[0021] The "piezoelectric polymer not having pyroelectricity" generally means a piezoelectric polymer composed of a polymer material and excluding the above-mentioned "piezoelectric polymer having pyroelectricity". Examples of such a piezoelectric polymer include polylactic acid (PLA). As polylactic acid, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) polymerized from L-form monomers and poly-D-lactic acid (PDLA) polymerized from D-form monomers are known.

[0022] An example of the piezoelectric material contained in the potential generating filament is "polylactic acid". Polylactic acid (PLA) that can be used as a piezoelectric material is a chiral polymer and has a helical structure in its main chain. When polylactic acid is uniaxially stretched and the molecules are oriented, it can exhibit piezoelectricity. Furthermore, when heat treatment is applied to increase the crystallinity, the piezoelectric constant increases. By increasing the crystallinity in this way, the value of the surface potential can be improved.

[0023] The optical purity (enantiomeric excess (e.e.)) of polylactic acid (PLA) can be calculated by the following formula. Optical purity (%)={|L volume - D volume| / (L volume + D volume)}×100 For example, in both the D and L isomers, the optical purity is 90% by weight or more, preferably 95% by weight or more, more preferably 98% by weight or more and 100% by weight or less, even more preferably 99.0% by weight or more and 100% by weight or less, and particularly preferably 99.0% by weight or more and 99.8% by weight or less. The amounts of the L and D isomers of polylactic acid (PLA) can be obtained, for example, by a method using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

[0024] The number-average molecular weight (Mn) of polylactic acid is, for example, 6.2 × 10⁻⁶. 4 Therefore, the weight-average molecular weight (Mw) is, for example, 1.5 × 10⁻⁶. 5 However, the molecular weight is not limited to these values.

[0025] Polylactic acid can acquire piezoelectric properties through molecular orientation treatment by stretching, thus eliminating the need for poling treatment, unlike other piezoelectric polymers or piezoelectric ceramics such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). The piezoelectric constant of uniaxially stretched polylactic acid is approximately 5-30 pC / N, which is very high among polymers. Furthermore, the piezoelectric constant of polylactic acid does not fluctuate over time and is extremely stable.

[0026] The potential-generating filament is preferably a fiber with a circular cross-section. The potential-generating filament can be manufactured by, for example, a method of extruding a piezoelectric polymer to form fibers, a method of melt-spinning a piezoelectric polymer to form fibers (including, for example, a spinning-drawing method in which the spinning and drawing processes are performed separately, a straight drawing method in which the spinning and drawing processes are linked, a POY-DTY method in which a false-twist process can also be performed simultaneously, or an ultra-high-speed spinning method that aims for high speed), a method of dry or wet spinning of a piezoelectric polymer (including, for example, a phase separation method or dry-wet spinning method in which the raw material polymer is dissolved in a solvent and extruded from a nozzle to form fibers, a gel spinning method in which fibers are uniformly formed into a gel-like state while containing the solvent, or a liquid crystal spinning method in which fibers are formed using a liquid crystal solution or melt), or a method of electrospinning a piezoelectric polymer to form fibers. Note that the cross-sectional shape of the potential-generating filament is not limited to circular. For example, it may have a circular, elliptical, rectangular, or irregularly shaped cross-section.

[0027] The potential-generating filament may be long or short. The potential-generating filament may have a length (dimension) of, for example, 0.01 mm or more. The length should be appropriately selected according to the desired application.

[0028] [Regarding the yarn of the first embodiment (the so-called S-yarn embodiment)] The yarn of this disclosure may be a yarn made by simply aligning a plurality of potential-generating filaments (aligned yarn or untwisted yarn), a twisted yarn (twisted yarn or twisted yarn), a crimped yarn (crimped yarn or false twisted yarn), or a spun yarn (spun yarn). Furthermore, the potential-generating filament may have a configuration in which a conductor is used as the core yarn, an insulator is wrapped around (covered) the conductor, and a voltage is applied to the conductor to generate an electric charge.

[0029] As shown in Figure 1(A), the yarn 1s may be constructed by twisting together a plurality of potential-generating filaments 10. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1(A), the yarn 1s is a left-handed twisted yarn (hereinafter referred to as "S yarn") obtained by twisting the potential-generating filaments 10 in a leftward spiral, but it may also be a right-handed twisted yarn (hereinafter referred to as "Z yarn") obtained by twisting the potential-generating filaments 10 in a rightward spiral (see, for example, yarn 1z in Figure 3(A)). Thus, in the case of a twisted yarn, the yarn may be either an "S yarn" or a "Z yarn".

[0030] In the thread, the spacing between the potential-generating filaments 10 is approximately 0 μm to 10 μm, and generally around 5 μm. Note that when the spacing between the potential-generating filaments 10 is 0 μm, it means that the potential-generating filaments are in contact with each other.

[0031] The yarn has a "large diameter with a total fineness of 90 dtex or more." In this specification, "total fineness" refers to the total fineness of a yarn composed of one or more potential-generating filaments 10. The unit "dtex" refers to the thickness of a yarn weighing 1 g per 10,000 m in length. The number of potential-generating filaments 10 is set to achieve the said total fineness. As long as the total fineness is 90 dtex or more, the number of potential-generating filaments 10 may be one or two or more. As an example, it is set to be between 20 and 600. In this specification, "large diameter" refers to having a larger diameter than a normal filament, and more specifically, as mentioned above, it refers to a filament having a diameter with a total fineness of 90 dtex or more.

[0032] In order to describe the thread in detail, we will explain in detail an example in which the potential-generating filament 10 includes a piezoelectric material, and such piezoelectric material is "polylactic acid".

[0033] As shown in Figure 1(A), the potential-generating filament 10, which contains uniaxially stretched polylactic acid, has tensor components d14 and d25 as piezoelectric strain constants, when the thickness direction is defined as the first axis, the stretching direction 900 as the third axis, and the direction perpendicular to both the first and third axes as the second axis.

[0034] Therefore, polylactic acid can most efficiently generate charge (or potential) when strain occurs in a direction 45 degrees to the direction of uniaxial stretching.

[0035] Figures 2(A) and 2(B) show the relationship between the uniaxial stretching direction of polylactic acid, the potential direction, and the deformation of the fiber containing the potential-generating filament 10 and / or yarn 1.

[0036] As shown in Figure 2(A), when the potential-generating filament 10 contracts in the direction of the first diagonal 910A and extends in the direction of the second diagonal 910B which is perpendicular to the first diagonal 910A, it can generate an electric potential in the direction from the back side to the front side of the paper. In other words, the potential-generating filament 10 can generate a negative charge on the front side of the paper. As shown in Figure 2(B), when the potential-generating filament 10 extends in the direction of the first diagonal 910A and contracts in the direction of the second diagonal 910B, it can also generate a charge (or electric potential), but the polarity is reversed, and it can generate an electric potential in the direction from the front side to the back side of the paper. In other words, the potential-generating filament 10 can generate a positive charge on the front side of the paper.

[0037] The yarn 1s shown in Figure 1 is a multifilament yarn (S yarn) made by twisting together multiple potential-generating filaments 10 containing polylactic acid (there are no particular restrictions on the twisting method). In this yarn, the stretching direction 900 of each potential-generating filament 10 coincides with the axial direction of each potential-generating filament 10. Therefore, the stretching direction 900 of the potential-generating filaments 10 is tilted to the left with respect to the axial direction of the yarn 1. The angle depends on the number of twists.

[0038] When an "external force," such as tension (preferably axial tension) or stress (preferably axial tensile stress), is applied to a thread 1s, which is an S-type thread, a negative (-) charge (or potential) can be generated on the surface of the thread 1s, and a positive (+) charge (or potential) can be generated inside it.

[0039] The thread 1s can form an electric potential due to the potential difference that can be generated by this charge. This electric potential can leak into the surrounding space and form a coupling potential with other parts. Furthermore, the electric potential generated in thread 1s can also create an electric potential between thread 1 and an object having a predetermined potential, such as the human body (including ground potential), when the thread is in close proximity to the object.

[0040] Furthermore, since yarn 1s has a total fineness of 90 dtex or more, it is a relatively thick yarn. Therefore, even though yarn 1s is not very stretchable, because it is a relatively thick yarn, it can generate a surface potential sufficient to suppress bacterial growth by the potential-generating filament 10. Specifically, the surface potential generated by the application of an external force can be, for example, 0.1V or more, preferably 1.0V or more. The surface potential can be either positive or negative. Specifically, in the case of yarn 1s, when pulled with the initial state of elongation 0 set to 0V, a negative surface potential is generated, and when contracted with the tensile state set to 0V, a positive surface potential is generated. There are no particular restrictions on the method of measuring the surface potential, and it can be measured using, for example, a scanning probe microscope.

[0041] Furthermore, the surface potential may not only suppress the growth of bacteria, but may also have direct bactericidal and antiviral effects, or it may be an effect that repels bacteria and viruses by generating a potential opposite to that of bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

[0042] [Regarding the yarn of the second embodiment (the so-called Z-yarn embodiment)] In the embodiment shown in Figure 3(A), the yarn 1z may be a right-handed twisted yarn (hereinafter referred to as "Z yarn") obtained by twisting the potential-generating filament 10 clockwise. Here, since yarn 1z is a Z yarn, the stretching direction 900 of the potential-generating filament (or piezoelectric fiber) 10 may be tilted to the right with respect to the axial direction of yarn 1z. The angle depends on the number of twists of the yarn. In addition, the polarity of the charge (or potential) generated in yarn 1s and yarn 1z will be different from that of yarn 1z.

[0043] In yarn 1z, the "total fineness is 90 dtex or more." The number of potential-generating filaments 10 is set to achieve this total fineness. As long as the total fineness is 90 dtex or more, the number of potential-generating filaments 10 may be one or two or more. As an example, it is set to 20 to 600. It is preferable that the elongation rate of yarn 1z having such fineness is less than 10%.

[0044] When an "external force," such as tension (preferably axial tension) or stress (preferably axial tensile stress), is applied to a Z-thread like thread 1z, a positive (+) charge (or potential) can be generated on the surface of thread 1z, and a negative (-) charge (or potential) can be generated inside it.

[0045] The thread 1z can also form an electric potential due to the potential difference that can be generated by this charge. This electric potential can leak into the surrounding space and form a coupling potential with other parts. Furthermore, the electric potential generated in thread 1z can also create an electric potential between thread 1z and an object having a predetermined potential, such as the human body (including ground potential), when the thread is in close proximity to the object.

[0046] Further details regarding yarn 1s (S yarn) and yarn 1z (Z yarn) can be obtained by referring to Japanese Patent Publication No. 6428979. Furthermore, Japanese Patent Publication No. 6428979 is incorporated herein by reference.

[0047] [Regarding the yarn of the third embodiment (an embodiment of a yarn provided with a dielectric)] Furthermore, the thread may have a dielectric material surrounding the potential-generating filament 10. For example, as schematically shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 4, a dielectric material 100 can be provided around the potential-generating filament 10.

[0048] In this disclosure, "dielectric" means a material or substance that includes dielectric properties (the property of being electrically polarized (or dielectric polarization or electric polarization) by electric potential), and which can store electric charge on its surface.

[0049] The dielectric 100 may be present in the longitudinal axis direction and circumferential direction of the potential-generating filament 10, and may completely or partially cover the potential-generating filament. In the case where the dielectric 100 partially covers the potential-generating filament 10, the uncovered portion of the potential-generating filament 10 may remain exposed.

[0050] Therefore, the dielectric material 100 may be provided entirely or partially along the longitudinal axis of the potential-generating filament 10. Furthermore, the dielectric material 100 may be provided entirely or partially along the circumferential direction of the potential-generating filament 10.

[0051] Furthermore, the dielectric 100 may have a uniform or non-uniform thickness (see, for example, Figure 4).

[0052] The dielectric 100 may be present between multiple potential-generating filaments 10, and in this case, there may be portions between the multiple potential-generating filaments 10 where the dielectric 100 is not present. Furthermore, bubbles or cavities may be present within the dielectric 100.

[0053] The dielectric 100 is not particularly limited as long as it includes a material or substance that has dielectric properties. Dielectric materials (e.g., oils, antistatic agents, etc.) that are known to be used as dielectric 100, mainly in the textile industry as surface treatment agents (or fiber treatment agents), may be used.

[0054] In yarn 1, the dielectric 100 preferably contains an oil. As the oil, an oil (yarning oil) used as a surface treatment agent (or fiber treatment agent) that can be used in the manufacture of the potential-generating filament 10 can be used (for example, anionic, cationic, or nonionic surfactants). In addition, an oil (for example, anionic, cationic, or nonionic surfactants) used as a surface treatment agent (or fiber treatment agent) that can be used in the fabric manufacturing process (for example, knitting, weaving, etc.) can also be used, as can an oil (for example, anionic, cationic, or nonionic surfactants) used as a surface treatment agent (or fiber treatment agent) that can be used in the finishing process can also be used. Here, as representative examples, filament manufacturing processes, fabric manufacturing processes, and finishing processes have been given, but the process is not limited to these processes. As the oil, it is particularly preferable to use an oil used to reduce friction of the potential-generating filament 10.

[0055] Examples of oil-based additives include the Delion series manufactured by Takemoto Oil & Fat Co., Ltd., the Marpozol series and Marposize series manufactured by Matsumoto Oil & Fat Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., and the Paratex series manufactured by Marubishi Oil & Chemical Industry Co., Ltd.

[0056] The oil may be present throughout the potential-generating filament 10, or at least partially. Furthermore, after the potential-generating filament 10 is processed into yarn 1, at least some or all of the oil may be removed from the potential-generating filament 10 by washing.

[0057] Furthermore, the dielectric 100 used to reduce friction of the potential-generating filament 10 may be a surfactant such as a detergent or fabric softener used during laundry.

[0058] Examples of detergents include the Attack® series manufactured by Kao Corporation, the Top® series manufactured by Lion Corporation, and the Ariel® series manufactured by Procter & Gamble Japan Ltd.

[0059] Examples of fabric softeners include the Humming® series manufactured by Kao Corporation, the Soflan® series manufactured by Lion Corporation, and the Lenor® series manufactured by Procter & Gamble Japan Ltd.

[0060] The dielectric 100 may be conductive (has the property of conducting electricity), and in that case, it is preferable that the dielectric 100 contains an antistatic agent. As the antistatic agent, an antistatic agent used as a surface treatment agent (or fiber treatment agent) that can be used in the manufacture of the potential-generating filament 10 can be used. As the antistatic agent, it is particularly preferable to use an antistatic agent used to reduce the unraveling of the potential-generating filament 10.

[0061] Examples of antistatic agents include the Capron series manufactured by Nisshin Chemical Research Institute Co., Ltd., and the Nicepole series and Daytron series manufactured by Nikka Chemical Co., Ltd.

[0062] The antistatic agent may be present throughout the potential-generating filament 10, or at least partially. Furthermore, after the potential-generating filament 10 is processed into yarn 1, at least some or all of the antistatic agent may be removed from the potential-generating filament 10 by washing.

[0063] Furthermore, surface treatment agents (or fiber treatment agents) such as the aforementioned oils and antistatic agents, as well as detergents and softeners, do not necessarily have to be present around the potential-generating filament 10. In other words, the potential-generating filament 10 or the yarn may not contain the aforementioned surface treatment agents (or fiber treatment agents) such as the aforementioned oils and antistatic agents, as well as detergents and softeners. In that case, the air (or air layer) present between the potential-generating filaments 10 can function as a dielectric. Therefore, in this case, the dielectric consists of air.

[0064] For example, a yarn that does not contain the aforementioned surface treatment agents (or fiber treatment agents) such as oils or antistatic agents, or detergents or fabric softeners, can be used by washing or solvent immersion in a yarn to which these agents have adhered around the potential-generating filament 10. In that case, the bare potential-generating filament 10 will be exposed. Alternatively, in this disclosure, a yarn consisting only of the bare potential-generating filament 10 may be used.

[0065] Furthermore, in this disclosure, a yarn may be used in which surface treatment agents (or fiber treatment agents) such as the aforementioned oils and antistatic agents, as well as detergents and fabric softeners, are partially removed by processes such as washing or solvent immersion, thereby partially exposing the untreated potential-generating filaments 10.

[0066] The thickness of the dielectric 100 (or the spacing between the potential-generating filaments 10) is approximately 0 μm to approximately 10 μm, preferably approximately 0.5 μm to approximately 10 μm, more preferably approximately 2.0 μm to approximately 10 μm, and generally about 5 μm.

[0067] [Regarding the yarn of the fourth embodiment (an embodiment of so-called false-twisted yarn)] In a preferred embodiment, the yarn may be in the form of a false-twisted yarn. In this specification, "false-twisted yarn" refers to a yarn in which the twist is removed by applying a twist in the opposite direction to a yarn that has been twisted while heat is applied, and "false-twisted yarn" refers to a yarn in which the diameter is made relatively thick by combining multiple false-twisted yarns. Furthermore, the "false-twisted yarn" may be in the form of a yarn in which loops, spirals, coils, etc. are generated in the filament.

[0068] The yarn of this embodiment may be formed by combining a first false-twist yarn, which is formed by false-twisting a yarn in which multiple potential-generating filaments are twisted in one direction, and a second false-twist yarn, which is formed by false-twisting a yarn in which multiple potential-generating filaments are twisted in opposite directions. Specifically, the intended form is one in which a yarn formed by false-twisting the S yarn 1s described in the first embodiment above and a yarn formed by false-twisting the Z yarn 1z described in the second embodiment above are combined.

[0069] The yarn (false-twisted yarn) of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 5 and 6. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a false-twisted yarn manufacturing apparatus, Figure 6(a) is a schematic diagram of the yarn in a twisted state, Figure 6(b) is a schematic diagram of the yarn before entanglement treatment by an air jet device, and Figure 6(c) is a schematic diagram of the yarn after entanglement treatment.

[0070] As an explanation of the yarn (false-twisted yarn) of this embodiment, the manufacturing method of the yarn will be described. First, yarn S 1s containing a potential-generating filament is set on one side of the false-twisted yarn manufacturing apparatus, and yarn Z 1z containing a potential-generating filament is set on the other side of the false-twisted yarn manufacturing apparatus. Each yarn is passed through heater H while in a twisted state (Figure 6(a)). Each yarn coming out of heater H is in a false-twisted state (Figure 6(b)) with the twist unraveled. These false-twisted yarns are subjected to air entanglement treatment by an air jet device AJ to obtain yarn 1 in the form of a false-twisted yarn as shown in Figure 6(c).

[0071] The false-twisted yarn has a total fineness of 90 dtex or more, making it a relatively thick yarn. Therefore, even if the elongation rate of yarn 1 is low, because it is a relatively thick yarn, the potential-generating filament 10 can generate a surface potential sufficient to suppress bacterial growth. Specifically, the surface potential generated by the application of an external force can be, for example, 0.1V or more, preferably 1.0V or more.

[0072] Furthermore, since yarn 1, which is in the form of a false-twisted yarn, is plied with an air jet nozzle, a bulky crimped yarn is obtained. In other words, a spun-like yarn is obtained that has a spun yarn-like fullness and soft texture due to the presence of loop-shaped fluff.

[0073] Furthermore, when the S yarn and Z yarn described in this embodiment are false-twisted, the torques of the left-twisted S yarn and the right-twisted Z yarn cancel each other out, which can suppress the skewing of the knitted fabric in subsequent processes such as dyeing the fabric. Note that the false-twisted yarn is not limited to the form using S yarn and Z yarn, but may also be formed by joining S yarns together or Z yarns together.

[0074] In the above description, a method was described for producing a yarn with a total fineness of 90 dtex or more by false-twisting S yarn 1s, which consists of 7 potential-generating filaments 10 twisted together as shown in Figure 1, and Z yarn 1z, which consists of 7 potential-generating filaments 10 twisted together as shown in Figure 3, with a total number of potential-generating filaments 10 of 14. However, the number of filaments is not limited to this example. For example, the number of filaments may be 2 or more. Preferably, it is 20 or more. Furthermore, it is preferable to increase the number of potential-generating filaments in order to increase the surface potential generated by the potential-generating filaments 10, but from the viewpoint of knitted fabric for clothing, it is preferable that the number of potential-generating filaments 10 be 600 or less.

[0075] [Regarding other preferred yarn embodiments] In yarn 1, it is preferable that the potential-generating filament 10 is made of polylactic acid (PLA). Including a piezoelectric material such as polylactic acid in the potential-generating filament 10 allows for more appropriate control of the surface potential. Furthermore, since polylactic acid is hydrophobic, it can provide a smooth feel against the skin, thereby adding comfort to the knitted structure. In addition, since polylactic acid is known as a biodegradable plastic, it can ultimately decompose into CO2 and water, reducing the environmental burden.

[0076] The degree of crystallinity of "polylactic acid" is preferably 20% or more, preferably 30% or more, more preferably 40% or more, even more preferably 50% or more, and particularly preferably 55% or more. The degree of crystallinity can be determined by measurement methods such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and wide-angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD). Within this range, the piezoelectricity derived from the polylactic acid crystals is increased, and polarization due to the piezoelectricity of polylactic acid can be generated more effectively. In this disclosure, the measured value of crystallinity measured using WAXD and the measured value of crystallinity measured using DSC differ by approximately 1.5 times (DSC measurement value / WAXD measurement value ≈ 1.5).

[0077] In addition to polylactic acid polymers, the piezoelectric materials of this disclosure may also use optically active polymers and their derivatives, such as polypeptides (e.g., poly(γ-benzyl glutarate), poly(γ-methyl glutarate), etc.), celluloses (e.g., cellulose acetate, cyanoethylcellulose, etc.), polybutyric acid (e.g., poly(β-hydroxybutyric acid), etc.), and polypropylene oxides, as polymer piezoelectric materials.

[0078] In the yarn (potential-generating filament) or fabric (clothing) of this disclosure, additives such as plasticizers and / or lubricants are preferably not included. Generally, it is known that when additives are included in yarn or fabric, surface potential tends to be difficult to generate. Therefore, in order to properly generate surface potential, it is preferable that the yarn or fabric does not contain additives. As used herein, "plasticizer" refers to a material that gives flexibility to the yarn or fabric, and "lubricant" refers to a material that improves the sliding of the piezoelectric yarn molecules. Specifically, this refers to polyethylene glycol, castor oil-based fatty acid esters, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, polyethylene glycol fatty acid esters, stearate amide and / or glycerin fatty acid esters, etc. These materials are not included in the yarn or fabric of this disclosure.

[0079] The yarn (potential generating filament) or fabric (clothing) of this disclosure may contain a hydrolysis inhibitor. In particular, it may contain a hydrolysis inhibitor for polylactic acid (PLA). As an example of a hydrolysis inhibitor, it may contain carbodiimide. More preferably, it may contain cyclic carbodiimide. More specifically, it may be the cyclic carbodiimide described in Japanese Patent No. 5475377. Such a cyclic carbodiimide can effectively encapsulate the acidic groups of a polymer compound. In addition, a carboxyl group encapsulant may be used in combination with the cyclic carbodiimide compound to an extent that effectively encapsulates the acidic groups of the polymer. Examples of such carboxyl group encapsulants include those described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-2174, such as epoxy compounds, oxazoline compounds and / or oxazine compounds.

[0080] The role of the hydrolysis inhibitor is explained below. Conventional PLA-containing fibers or filaments (fibers or filaments that do not generate surface potential) exert their antibacterial effect by generating acid through hydrolysis of PLA, which acts on bacteria. Therefore, when hydrolysis of PLA occurs, the fiber or filament deteriorates. However, the potential-generating fiber or filament of this disclosure has a different antibacterial mechanism than conventional materials, and exerts its antibacterial effect by generating a surface potential as described above, so hydrolysis does not need to occur. Furthermore, since the potential-generating fiber or filament of this disclosure contains a hydrolysis inhibitor, it is possible to prevent hydrolysis from occurring in the fiber or filament and suppress the deterioration of the fiber or filament.

[0081] The yarns of this disclosure should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described above, particularly yarns composed of polylactic acid. Furthermore, there are no particular limitations on the methods for manufacturing the yarns of this disclosure, and the methods are not limited to those described above.

[0082] -Description of fabrics and garments in this disclosure- The fabric of this disclosure contains yarn that has a large diameter with a total fineness of 90 dtex or more and includes potential-generating filaments that generate an electric potential when exposed to external energy. The garment of this disclosure uses a fabric containing said yarn. The elongation of the fabric is relatively low. In other words, it is preferable that the elongation rate is less than 10%. The fabric of this disclosure includes woven fabrics, knitted fabrics, nonwoven fabrics, etc. In this disclosure, the term "fabric" is used with the intention of referring to the material used to make garments, but is also used as a synonym for "cloth".

[0083] Here, as an example of fabric, knitted fabrics made by knitting the aforementioned yarns will be specifically described. Here, "knitted fabric" as used herein means a sheet-like structure having a structure in which multiple loops are connected to one another, that is, a knit structure. For example, a knitted fabric can be made by creating loops of yarn (e.g., ring-shaped parts) and hooking the next loop onto those loops in a continuous manner to form a surface or structure. More specifically, a knitted fabric may have a structure that can be formed by knitting methods such as weft knitting, warp knitting, circular knitting, tubular knitting, or sock knitting. Such knitted fabrics also include tricot and raschel. Furthermore, sewn products such as cut-and-sew and knit-sew garments are also included in the knitted fabrics of this disclosure. In addition, seamless products such as whole garments are also included in the knitted fabrics of this disclosure (WHOLEGARMENT®). In other words, it is a concept that is distinctly different from woven fabrics, which are formed by the intersection of warp and weft threads at right angles.

[0084] Examples of knitted fabrics that may be included in this disclosure include, but are not limited to, plain knit (also called jersey knit or stockinette knit), bare jersey, plating jersey, smooth (also called interlock), pique (front pique, back pique), knit mist (also called float), honeycomb, thermal (also called waffle), and rib knit. The knitted fabric may have different textures on the front and back. The knitted fabric may also include "tucks." In other words, tuck knitting may be used in combination. The knitted fabric may also include "misses." The knitted fabric may be terry cloth on the back or brushed on the back. Depending on the knitted fabric, the feel of the fabric, breathability, elasticity, etc. can be changed.

[0085] In this disclosure, an organization that includes the smallest repeating units of “knits,” and optionally “tucks” and / or “misses” is referred to as a “complete organization.”

[0086] Such structures may be formed using a knitting machine or by hand knitting. When using a knitting machine, there are no particular restrictions on the type of machine; conventionally known knitting machines can be used without any particular limitations.

[0087] In the above description, the fabric of this disclosure was described as a knitted fabric, but it may also be a textile product such as a woven fabric, braided fabric, nonwoven fabric, or lace. [Examples]

[0088] Examples 1-5 and Comparative Examples 1-5 of garments using fabric containing the yarn of this disclosure were manufactured.

[0089] -Example 1- 144 potential-generating filaments, each with a fineness of 1.15 dtex, were prepared, resulting in a total fineness of 167 dtex for the yarn described in embodiments 1 to 4 above.

[0090] A knitted fabric was manufactured using yarn containing the potential-generating filament and nylon yarn. The knitted fabric was produced using a Shima Seiki Mfg. Co., Ltd. computer-controlled flat knitting machine, resulting in a plating jersey structure. After the knitted fabric underwent a normal dyeing process, a garment (sweatshirt) was manufactured using the knitted fabric.

[0091] -Example 2- 144 potential-generating filaments, each with a fineness of 1.15 dtex, were prepared, resulting in a total fineness of 167 dtex for the yarn described in embodiments 1 to 4 above.

[0092] A knitted fabric was manufactured using yarn containing the potential-generating filament. The knitted fabric was knitted using a double 28-gauge knitting machine (Fukuhara Seiki LPJ25 model) to create a honeycomb structure. After the knitted fabric underwent a normal dyeing process, a garment (pants) was manufactured using the knitted fabric.

[0093] -Example 3- 576 potential-generating filaments, each with a fineness of 0.573 dtex, were prepared, resulting in a total fineness of 330 dtex for the yarn described in Embodiments 1 to 4 above.

[0094] Knitted fabrics were manufactured using yarn containing the potential-generating filament, nylon yarn, and polyester yarn. The knitted fabrics were made using a double 28-gauge knitting machine (Fukuhara Seiki LPJ25 model knitting machine) and had a double-sided bonded structure. After the knitted fabrics underwent a normal dyeing process, garments (jersey products) were manufactured using these knitted fabrics.

[0095] -Example 4- Forty-eight potential-generating filaments, each with a fineness of 2.29 dtex, were prepared, and a total fineness of 110 dtex was achieved as the yarn described in Embodiments 1 to 4 above.

[0096] A knitted fabric was manufactured using yarn containing the potential-generating filament and nylon yarn (24 filaments, total fineness 78 dtex). The knitted fabric was produced using a 28-gauge warp knitting machine (Karl Mayer HKS model) and had a back half structure. After the knitted fabric underwent a normal dyeing process, garments (medical uniform products) were manufactured using the knitted fabric.

[0097] -Example 5- Twenty-four potential-generating filaments, each with a fineness of 4.58 dtex, were prepared, resulting in a total fineness of 110 dtex for the yarn described in Embodiments 1 to 4 above.

[0098] A woven fabric was manufactured using yarn containing the potential-generating filament and polyester yarn (24 filaments, total fineness 56 dtex). The woven fabric had a plain weave structure. After a normal dyeing process was performed on this woven fabric, a garment (jacket) was manufactured using the fabric.

[0099] -Comparative Example 1- Seventy-two potential-generating filaments, each with a fineness of 1.17 dtex, were prepared, resulting in a total fineness of 84 dtex. In other words, the fineness per filament is about the same as in Example 1, but because the number of filaments is less than in Example 1, the total fineness is less than 90 dtex.

[0100] A knitted fabric was manufactured using yarn containing the potential-generating filament and polyester yarn. The knitted fabric was made using a double 22-gauge knitting machine (Fukuhara Seiki LPJH model knitting machine) and had a plating jersey structure. After the knitted fabric underwent a normal dyeing process, a garment (sweatshirt product) was manufactured using the knitted fabric.

[0101] -Comparative Example 2- We prepared 72 potential-generating filaments, each with a fineness of 1.17 dtex, achieving a total fineness of 84 dtex. In other words, the total fineness is less than 90 dtex.

[0102] A knitted fabric was manufactured using a yarn containing the potential-generating filament and a polyester yarn. The knitted fabric was made using a double 28-gauge knitting machine (Fukuhara Seiki LPJ25 model knitting machine) and had a double-sided knotted structure. After the knitted fabric underwent a normal dyeing process, garments (jersey products) were manufactured using the knitted fabric.

[0103] -Comparative Example 3- We prepared 36 potential-generating filaments, each with a fineness of 1.56 dtex, achieving a total fineness of 56 dtex. In other words, the total fineness is less than 90 dtex.

[0104] A knitted fabric was manufactured using a yarn containing the potential-generating filament and a polyester yarn. The knitted fabric was knitted using a double 22-gauge knitting machine (Fukuhara Seiki LPJH model knitting machine) to create a honeycomb structure. After the knitted fabric underwent a normal dyeing process, a garment (jacket product) was manufactured using the knitted fabric.

[0105] -Comparative Example 4- We prepared 36 potential-generating filaments, each with a fineness of 1.56 dtex, achieving a total fineness of 56 dtex. In other words, the total fineness is less than 90 dtex.

[0106] A knitted fabric was manufactured using yarn containing the potential-generating filament and nylon yarn. The knitted fabric was produced using a 28-gauge warp knitting machine (Karl Mayer HKS model) and had a back half structure. After the usual dyeing process was carried out on this knitted fabric, garments (medical uniform products) were manufactured using this knitted fabric.

[0107] -Comparative Example 5- We prepared 36 potential-generating filaments, each with a fineness of 1.56 dtex, achieving a total fineness of 56 dtex. In other words, the total fineness is less than 90 dtex.

[0108] A woven fabric was manufactured using yarn containing the potential-generating filament and polyester yarn. The woven fabric had a plain weave structure. After a normal dyeing process was carried out on this woven fabric, a garment (jacket) was manufactured using the fabric.

[0109] For Examples 1-5 and Comparative Examples 1-5 described above, elongation rate evaluation, surface potential evaluation, and antibacterial evaluation were performed. The specific evaluation details are described below.

[0110] (Evaluation of growth rate) After wearing the products of the examples and comparative examples, the strain was measured in areas that stretch as clothing (e.g., the armpits and groin) during walking, and the elongation rate was determined based on these measurements. The measuring equipment, measurement range, and measurement conditions are as follows. Measuring equipment: ARAMIS Adjustable Base 12M Measurement range: 1160 x 940 x 940 mm 2 Measurement conditions: 7Hz, f4.0

[0111] (Surface potential evaluation) The surface potential of the fabrics of the examples and comparative examples was measured using an electrostatic force microscope (EFM) (Model 1100TN, manufactured by Trek). The surface potential was evaluated using a potential measuring device (see Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-065673) equipped with a tensile mechanism capable of pulling the products of the examples and comparative examples, which are placed on a conductive block as a ground electrode, in at least one direction. In other words, a method different from the measurement method described in Patent Document 1 (International Publication No. 2020 / 241432), which involves (a) stretching the yarn by a predetermined amount in one axis direction, (b) covering the fibers with a core material made of conductive fibers, (c) grounding the core material, and (d) measuring the surface potential of the yarn with an electroforce microscope, was adopted.

[0112] (Antibacterial evaluation) The details of the antibacterial test are as follows: (1) The number of viable bacteria is measured for the products of the comparative example and the example in their initial state. (2) The number of viable bacteria in the comparative example and the example products is measured after standing for 18 hours. (3) For the comparative example and example products that have been left standing for 18 hours, the number of viable bacteria is measured after the products are continuously stretched and contracted for 18 hours to generate a surface potential. In other words, the "antimicrobial activity value" in this disclosure refers to the value calculated as follows: Antimicrobial activity value = number of viable bacteria A - number of viable bacteria B Viable cell count A: Viable cell count after 18 hours of standing Viable bacterial count B: Viable bacterial count after continuously stretching the product for 18 hours to generate surface potential. The viable cell count was evaluated based on the JIS L1902 method, as described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 6922546 and Japanese Patent Publication No. 6292368. The viable cell count values ​​represent the logarithmic value of the Colony Forming Unit (logarithmic value of colonies per gram).

[0113] The results of the elongation rate evaluation, surface potential evaluation, and antibacterial evaluation are shown in the table below.

[0114] [Table 1]

[0115] [Table 2]

[0116] According to the results in Tables 1 and 2, the garments of Examples 1 to 5, being made of large-diameter yarn with a total fineness of 90 dtex or more, obtained a surface potential value greater than 0.1 V. Furthermore, the antibacterial activity value was 1.5 or higher, indicating good antibacterial properties.

[0117] In the garments of Examples 1 to 5, the total fineness was 350 dtex or less, so it was possible to obtain sufficient elongation to generate a surface potential for the potential-generating filaments.

[0118] Furthermore, according to the results of Examples 3 to 5, by using 20 or more potential-generating filaments, it was possible to realize a large-diameter yarn with a total fineness of 90 dtex or more, and the desired surface potential could be generated using this yarn.

[0119] Furthermore, according to the results of Examples 1 and 2, even when the number of potential-generating filaments is 600 or less, it is possible to realize a large-diameter yarn with a total fineness of 90 dtex or more, and the desired surface potential can be generated by this yarn.

[0120] On the other hand, the garments of Comparative Examples 1-5 had a total fineness of less than 90 dtex, resulting in a surface potential of 0.1V or less. Furthermore, their antibacterial activity value was less than 1.5, resulting in poorer antibacterial performance compared to the garments of Examples 1-5.

[0121] The embodiments of the yarn, fabric and garments of this disclosure are as follows: <1> A yarn with a total fineness of 90 dtex or more and a large diameter, containing potential-generating filaments that generate an electric potential when they receive external energy. <2> The total fineness is 350 dtex or less. <1> The thread described. <3> The number of potential-generating filaments is 20 or more. <1> or <2> The thread described. <4> The number of potential-generating filaments is 600 or less. <1> ~ <3> The yarn described in one of the following. <5> The potential-generating filament comprises a piezoelectric material. <1> ~ <4> The yarn described in one of the following. <6> The piezoelectric material comprises polylactic acid, <1> ~ <5> The yarn described in one of the following. <7> The piezoelectric material does not contain any additives. <1> ~ <6> The yarn described in one of the following. <8> The piezoelectric material contains a hydrolysis inhibitor. <1> ~ <7> The yarn described in one of the following. <9> A first false-twisted yarn is formed by false-twisting a yarn in which a plurality of potential-generating filaments are twisted in one direction, and a second false-twisted yarn is formed by false-twisting a yarn in which a plurality of potential-generating filaments are twisted in the opposite direction to the first false-twisted yarn, and these two yarns are combined together. <1> ~ <8> The yarn described in one of the following. <10> To generate a surface potential greater than 0.1V, <1> ~ <9> The yarn described in one of the following. <11> <1> ~ <10> A cloth having the threads described in any one of the items. <12> The aforementioned yarn is knitted to form a knitted fabric. <11> The fabric described. <13> The aforementioned threads are woven to form a woven fabric. <11> The fabric described. <14> The antibacterial activity value is 1.5 or higher. <11> ~ <13> The fabric described in one of the following items. <15> The growth rate is less than 10%. <11> ~ <14> The fabric described in one of the following items. <16> <11> ~ <15> Clothing made from any one of the fabrics described in one of the following lists.

[0122] The embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and do not constitute a limiting interpretation. Therefore, the technical scope of the present invention is not construed solely by the embodiments described above, but is defined based on the claims. Furthermore, the technical scope of the present invention includes all modifications within the meaning and scope of equivalence to the claims. [Industrial applicability]

[0123] This disclosure can be used, for example, in yarns, fabrics, and garments that can effectively generate a surface potential even with low elongation. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0124] 1,1s,1z thread 10 Potential-generating filaments 100 Dielectric 900 Stretching direction 910A First diagonal 910B Second diagonal H heater AJ Air Jet System

Claims

1. It has a large diameter with a total fineness of 90 dtex or more, and includes a potential-generating filament that generates an electric potential when it receives energy from an external source. A first false-twisted yarn is formed by false-twisting a yarn in which a plurality of the aforementioned potential-generating filaments are twisted in one direction, A yarn formed by combining a second false-twisted yarn, which is a yarn in which multiple potential-generating filaments are twisted in opposite directions to the aforementioned one direction, with the yarn.

2. The yarn according to claim 1, wherein the total fineness is 350 dtex or less.

3. The yarn according to claim 1, wherein the number of potential-generating filaments is 20 or more.

4. The yarn according to claim 1, wherein the number of potential-generating filaments is 600 or less.

5. The yarn according to claim 1, wherein the potential-generating filament comprises a piezoelectric material.

6. The yarn according to claim 5, wherein the piezoelectric material comprises polylactic acid.

7. The piezoelectric material is a yarn according to claim 6, wherein the piezoelectric material does not contain any additives.

8. The piezoelectric material is the yarn according to claim 6, wherein the piezoelectric material contains a hydrolysis inhibitor.

9. The yarn according to claim 1, which generates a surface potential greater than 0.1 V.

10. A cloth comprising the yarn described in claim 1.

11. The fabric according to claim 10, wherein the yarn is knitted to form a knitted fabric.

12. The cloth according to claim 10, wherein the aforementioned threads are woven to form a woven fabric.

13. The fabric according to claim 10, wherein the antibacterial activity value is 1.5 or higher.

14. A garment made of the fabric described in claim 10.

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