Recent advances in garment dry processing technologies for color fading and vintage effects: A comprehensive review

There have been major transitions in the process of manufacturing modern apparels, especially denims, due to developments in garment dry processing techniques used to create color fading and vintage effects. Such methods include laser fading, ozone fading, and E-Flow/ nano-bubbles offer an efficient way of achieving worn-out appearances using minimal or even no toxic chemicals, water, and energy at all. In terms of quantitative assessment, it is possible to make sure that water consumption can be reduced by as much as 99% (laser systems), chemical application by 70%–90% (E-Flow systems), and energy consumption by 20%–50% (ozone fading technology). At the same time, there are certain quality-related issues that can be mentioned as fabric strength reduction (by 10%–20%), uneven color fading caused by fabric inconsistency, and back staining with environmentally friendly processes, among others. Industrial applications of these innovations denoted better efficiency, environmental friendliness, and design freedom. However, high capital investments and lack of scalability hinder their further spread. In general, dry garment processing technologies transform the field of denim fabric finishes by combining environmental considerations with digital technologies, while ongoing research is essential to overcome quality limitations.