Evaluating the environmental and easy-care benefits of diacetate fiber blended textiles: implications for sustainability in the textile industry

Purpose This study aims to explore the environmental and easy-care benefits of diacetate fiber blended textiles, emphasizing their potential in enhancing sustainability and reducing carbon emissions in the textile industry. It addresses the pressing need for innovative materials that combine functional advantages with reduced environmental impacts. Design/methodology/approach A comprehensive series of experiments was conducted to assess the easy-care properties of fabrics blended with diacetate fibers. These properties include stain resistance, wash dimensional stability and antistatic performance, using standardized textile testing methods. The experimental setup involved a variety of fabric blends tested under simulated conditions that mimic real-world usage to evaluate the effectiveness of diacetate fibers in practical applications. Findings The inclusion of diacetate fibers significantly enhances several easy-care properties of the textiles. Fabrics containing these fibers showed improved stain resistance, particularly in blends with polyester and cotton, which also exhibited better dimensional stability after washing. Antistatic properties were notably better in diacetate-polyester blends compared to other fiber compositions. Furthermore, the research demonstrated that these fabrics require fewer wash cycles, effectively reducing water and energy consumption, thereby contributing to environmental sustainability. Originality/value This study is among the first to systematically quantify the multiple benefits of diacetate fiber blends in textiles, providing a dual focus on environmental impact and practical textile care. The findings offer new insights into the use of sustainable fiber technologies in reducing the ecological footprint of the textile industry while maintaining material performance, supporting the advancement toward a more sustainable fashion industry.