Unlocking Sustainable Performance: The Influence of Weave Structure on Unidirectional Kenaf Fabric Properties

This study investigates the physical, mechanical, and permeability properties of novel unidirectional kenaf woven fabrics (UD-K) with Plain, Twill 2/2, and 8-end Sateen weave structures. Addressing a knowledge gap in pure woven kenaf, this research utilised kenaf as the dominant weft yarn and nylon as the warp and produced the fabric on a loom. Results showed that weave structure significantly influenced fabric characteristics. Physically, fabric density, thickness, and weight consistently increased from Plain to Twill to Sateen weaves, attributed to their interlacing patterns, allowing denser yarn packing. Kenaf yarn crimp, however, was highest in Sateen and lowest in Twill. Mechanically, the Sateen weave exhibited superior tensile strength and elongation in the kenaf-dominant direction, significantly outperforming Plain and Twill due to optimal load distribution. For permeability, air permeability decreased inversely with fabric density (PlainàTwillàSateen). Notably, the Sateen weave displayed a dramatically higher water vapour permeability than Plain and Twill, suggesting unique moisture-transport pathways. This research provides essential baseline data, demonstrating that weave structure is a critical parameter for tailoring UD-K fabric properties. These findings enhance the understanding of natural fibre textiles and highlight their potential for technical applications, from high-performance composites to functional textiles.