The effects of drying parameters and conditioning on mechanical properties of latex‐backed carpet

Abstract

In this study, the effects of drying parameters and conditioning on the mechanical properties of latex‐backed carpet were investigated. Mechanical properties clearly correlated with the lowest moisture content (MC) experienced by samples in either drying or conditioning. Lowering MC was necessary to develop mechanical properties; however, the highest mechanical properties were achieved at the highest latex temperature, indicating that raising latex temperature can improve mechanical properties. The effect of conditioning on mechanical properties depended on the MC of the latex backing at the end of drying.

Keywords:

• tuft carpet
• latex
• curing
• drying

Acknowledgements

This work was supported by Georgia’s Consortium on Competitiveness for the Apparel, Carpet and Textile Industries (CCACTI). We would like to express our appreciation to Milliken Live Oak/Milstar Complex and Perpetual Machine Co. for their support and advice.