Enhancing selected comfort-related and aesthetic properties via ozone treatment: a comparative study of plain, twill and satin weaves

Purpose The main purpose of this study is to examine the selected comfort-related and aesthetic properties (thermal conductivity, drapability, air permeability) as well as physical properties of cotton-linen fabrics – commonly preferred for enhancing comfort – after applying ozone treatment to fabrics produced in three fundamental weave structures, using the same yarn count and similar Grams per Square Meter values. Design/methodology/approach Cotton-linen fabrics in plain, twill and satin weaves were treated with ozone under systematically varied flow rates and durations. Whiteness, thermal conductivity, air permeability and drape were measured according to International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards. Based on two-factor analysis of variance and student–Newman–Keuls post hoc analyses, the treatment condition of 10 L/min for 60 min was identified as optimal. Therefore, all further experiments were performed using this condition. Findings While ozone treatment is known to enhance whiteness, this study additionally revealed improvements in thermal conductivity and drape, along with a reduction in air permeability. Twill and satin weaves showed greater whiteness gains due to their looser structures and enhanced light reflection. Plain weave achieved slightly higher thermal conductivity, while air permeability decreased because of increased yarn compactness. Drape improved most in satin weave, indicating smoother, more flexible surfaces. Overall, ozonation enhanced comfort and appearance, demonstrating its potential as an eco-friendly finishing method. Originality/value This study focuses on the selected comfort-related and aesthetic properties of fabrics after ozone treatment, in contrast to the numerous studies in the literature that primarily investigate the effects of ozone on the physical properties of textiles. By optimizing parameters and comparing identical yarn weaves, it provides practical insights into ozone’s efficiency and highlights its promise as a sustainable alternative to conventional finishing techniques.