A new study has revealed how knit fabrics can conform to the contours of a head or body, thanks to the friction between adjacent loops of fiber that make up the fabric. These fabrics can take on different shapes, known as metastable states, when stretched and released. It was found that the ratio of the fabric’s length to its width varied depending on the direction and amount of stretching, indicating its ability to take on various shapes.
Researchers conducted experiments by stretching a square of knit fabric on a frame and then releasing the force to measure its length-to-width ratio. Computer simulations of simplified fiber loops showed similar results, and removing friction in the simulation eliminated the multiple metastable states. This phenomenon helps to explain the process of blocking, in which knitters shape and lay out the fabric to dry after knitting a garment, ensuring it conforms to the body for maximum warmth.
The research was led by physicist Jérôme Crassous from the University of Rennes in France. The study demonstrated how knit fabrics are able to hold multiple shapes due to the friction between loops of fiber, allowing them to fit to different body shapes and contours. This discovery sheds light on the complexity of knit fabrics and their ability to conform to different configurations while retaining their original shape.
The study provides insight into the unique behavior of knit fabrics and the multiple shapes they can take on due to friction between loops of fiber. This understanding could impact the design and construction of knitted garments, as well as provide a better understanding of the properties of knit fabrics. The research highlights the importance of friction in maintaining the multiple metastable states of knit fabrics and how this phenomenon can be observed in both physical experiments and computer simulations.
Ultimately, this research provides valuable information on the behavior of knit fabrics and how friction plays a crucial role in their ability to conform to different shapes. The study offers a deeper understanding of the unique properties of knit fabrics and sheds light on the science behind the process of blocking, which locks the fabric into the desired configuration. These findings could have implications for the fashion industry, as well as for individuals who enjoy knitting and creating their own garments.
