Study on the composition and removal effect of human odor on moisture-wicking fabric during home laundry

Abstract

Armpit odors of different individuals were qualitatively and quantitatively collected and analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The results showed that human armpit odor contained 27 substances, including acids, ketones, alcohols, alkanes, and two noticeable odorants of n-nonaldehyde and dodecanol. A headspace solid-phase microextraction/gas chromatography–mass spectrometry method determined that both n-nonaldehyde and dodecanol with distinct characteristic peaks were common chemicals found in the body odors with detection limits at 46.88 and 17.50 ng/L, respectively. The limits of quantitation of both were 156.25 and 59.33 ng/L with relative standard deviation (RSD) less than 5%, and recoveries ranged from 85% to 115%, respectively. The removal of body odor on a moisture-wicking polyester fabric was quantified through by placement, washing, and deodorant finishing methods. The placement method needs at least 2 days for removing the majority of the odor. Sports washing liquid was the best detergent to remove odors with a removal rate of 76.44% for n-nonaldehyde and 87.88% for dodecanol. Deodorant finishing is a convenient and efficient method for removing odors with masking effect of added fragrance. The deodorants were able to remove over 85% of n-nonaldehyde and 75% of dodecanol after drying, indicating that deodorant treatment is an effective method for removing odorous substances. This successful approach in eliminating human odors could offer valuable insights for the advancement of sportswear and hygiene textiles.