Effects of fabric properties, water saturation and separating velocity on adhesion characteristics using a novel...

Objectives. To alleviate the discomfort caused by wet fabric adhering to the skin, this study aims to examine the effects of fabric properties, fabric water saturation and separating velocity on adhesion characteristics between the fabric and the skin. Methods. A novel measurement method was devised to assess adhesion characteristics, and the obtained data demonstrated favorable repeatability. Utilizing this methodology, the adhesion characteristics of 21 fabrics were evaluated under varying water saturations and separating velocities. Results. Water saturation exhibited the most substantial positive influence on both peak adhesion force and adhesion distance. As the separating velocity increased, the change rate of adhesion force displayed linear growth. Additionally, the surface roughness of the fabric, measured under dry conditions, did not have a significant impact on the peak adhesion force, while elongation of the fabric did not significantly affect the adhesion distance. Conclusions. This study demonstrates that the water saturation of fabric significantly influences adhesion charateristics, whereas the surface roughness of the fabric under wet conditions does not. Future research should focus on  further exploring the impact of fabric properties on adhesion force in wet conditions.