What is cotton spandex fabric? What are its characteristics?

    What is cotton spandex fabric? I believe everyone is familiar with cotton fabric and Spandex Fabric. Today, I will introduce what cotton spandex fabric is. Here are some knowledge points I have compiled for you. I hope these contents can help you better understand cotton spandex fabric and its characteristics. Let's take a look together
    What is cotton spandex fabric? Let's start with spandex. Spandex is primarily spandex fiber, whose scientific name is polyurethane fiber. Spandex is a synthetic fiber made up of a material that is rich in more than 85% polyurethane.

    There are two types of Spandex Fibers. One is an inlaid copolymer of aromatic diisocyanate and polyester segments rich in hydroxyl groups, referred to as polyester-based spandex. The other is an inlaid copolymer of aromatic diisocyanate and polyether segments rich in hydroxyl groups, referred to as polyether-based spandex. Spandex fibers, elastic polyolefin fibers, and elastic composite fibers are collectively referred to as elastic fibers.
    Spandex fiber is a synthetic fiber characterized by high breaking elongation (over 400%), low modulus, and high elastic recovery rate. The most notable feature of its fabric is its excellent elasticity, which allows it to stretch 5-8 times. Additionally, it resists aging and cannot be woven alone; it is typically blended with other materials, with the proportion of spandex ranging from approximately 3-10%. For swimwear fabrics, the proportion of spandex can reach up to 20%. In contrast, cotton spandex fabric contains only 5% spandex. Spandex also exhibits high extensibility (500%-700%), low elastic modulus (0.04-0.12 grams per denier at 200% elongation), and high elastic recovery rate (95%-99% at 200% elongation). Besides its high strength, its other physical and mechanical properties closely resemble those of natural latex yarn. It is more resistant to chemical degradation than latex yarn and possesses moderate thermal stability, with a softening temperature of approximately 200°C. Long-term exposure to sunlight or chlorine bleach can cause fading, but the degree of fading varies greatly depending on the type of spandex.

    What is cotton spandex fabric, and what are its highlights?
    The cotton and spandex fabric is commonly known as Lycra. It is elastic, resistant to deformation, soft, and comfortable, making it the preferred fabric for intimate apparel (underwear, underpants). Spandex-containing elastic fabrics have a soft feel and good elasticity, making the clothing made from them comfortable to wear and enhancing the appearance of the human body. Therefore, they are used in stretch swimwear, sports pants, underwear, and various fashionable outerwear fabrics. The combination of cotton and spandex is increasingly being applied in finished underwear products. Cotton + spandex fabric is smooth, elastic, has good water absorption, good hand feel, and excellent breathability, making it the first choice for high-end clothing.
    That's all for today's introduction about what cotton spandex fabric is. I hope this article of mine can meet your needs, and I also hope it can help more people.