DOI: 10.55581/ejeas.1969860 ISSN: 2651-3412

Comparative Evaluation of the Functional Performance of Soybean Protein Fiber Fabrics for Sportswear Applications

Bilge Berkhan Kastaci
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Recent developments in the textile industry have increased the demand for innovative and environmentally friendly materials that combine sustainability, technical functionality, and user comfort. Fabrics intended for sportswear applications are expected to provide multiple performance characteristics simultaneously, including moisture management, air permeability, UV protection, and surface durability. In this context, soybean protein fiber (SPF), a biodegradable fiber derived from renewable resources, has attracted attention as a promising alternative fiber for textile applications. This study comparatively evaluated the functional performance of knitted fabrics produced from SPF, cotton, polyester, Tencel, modal, and bamboo fibers. Six standardized tests relevant to sportswear performance were conducted, namely bursting strength, pilling resistance, air permeability, water vapor permeability, capillary absorption, and UV transmittance. The results demonstrated that SPF fabrics exhibited strong overall performance, particularly in bursting strength, pilling resistance, water vapor permeability, capillary absorption, and UV protection. SPF fabrics achieved the highest ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) among all tested samples while maintaining competitive mechanical and comfort-related properties. The findings indicate that soybean protein fiber represents a promising textile alternative, with potential for sportswear applications requiring both technical performance and sustainability.

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