Physicochemical Properties of Sized Yams

Abstract

The physical properties of cotton and polyester/cotton blend yams sized with several two-component size formulations were evaluated. The sizing systems included starch/polyvinyl alcohol, starch/polyester, and polyvinyl alcohol/polyester. The yams were evaluated by means of tensile tests and by measurements of rupture lifetimes when subjected to simultaneous tensile, bending, and abrasive stresses using the TRI cyclic tensile abrader (CTA). Scanning electron microscopy and tensile tests on films cast from the two-component size mixtures were used to clarify the different yam physical properties that were observed. The findings indicate that film extensibility and surface uniformity of the film are critical for achieving .high lifetimes on the CTA apparatus. The effects of adding a lubricant (tallow) to the size formulations were also investigated.