Compression of foldable links-links knitted structures

Folding of links-links knitted structures is based on the structural disequilibrium of face and reverse loops,which causes the fabric to form a 3-dimensional structure. foldable structures shrink in both course and wale directions when relaxed. under the applied strain in the horizontal or vertical direction,3-dimensional structures smooth into a flat fabric,creases unfold and the structures expand in both directions. fabric thickness increases with folding. compressibility means a decrease in initial thickness due to the increase in compressive force at measuring time. it is affected by knitting parameters such as density,fabric thickness,texture etc. the aim of the research was to evaluate the compressibility of links-links weft knitted fabrics with a zigzag structure which could potentially be used as a packaging and mechanical damage protection material. the influence of the yarn material composition and repeat size on the compression properties of foldable links-links knitted structures was examined in order to evaluate their adequacy for compression resistant materials.