To solve this problem, we need to understand how drape coefficient changes due to scouring in a fabric, particularly for cotton grey fabric.
- Drape Coefficient (DC): This is a measure of a fabric’s ability to conform to a shape or fall naturally under its own weight. A lower drape coefficient indicates better drapeability (more flexible and less stiff fabric).
- Grey Fabric: Raw fabric straight from the loom without any finishing.
- Scouring: A pre-treatment process that removes natural and added impurities like waxes, pectins, and sizing agents. It makes the fabric softer, improves its absorbency, and usually improves its drape.
- Initial drape coefficient (grey fabric) = 0.78
- We need to find the drape coefficient after scouring.
Scouring typically reduces the drape coefficient, as the fabric becomes softer and more pliable.
Looking at the options provided:
- 0.51 → Significant reduction
- 0.681 → Slight reduction
- 0.62 → Moderate reduction
- 0.59 → Moderate-to-significant reduction
From textile engineering references and practical studies, the drape coefficient of cotton fabric after scouring typically drops by approximately 15%–25%.
Original DC = 0.78
25% of 0.78 = 0.195
Estimated new DC = 0.78 – 0.195 = ~0.585
The drape coefficient of the fabric following scouring is 0.59.