Assessment of Fabric Performance Versus Reagent Location from Lick Roller Application of DMDHEU

Abstract

The balance of textile performance properties and the distribution of crosslinking reagent residues throughout fabric were studied in relation to lick roller application of DMDHEU. Features of the lick roller treated fabric were compared to the con ventional pad(immersion)-dry-cure product and to a corresponding product designed to have a high degree of uniformity of reagent residue distribution throughout the thickness of the fabric by minimizing migration. A special Osnaburg-fabric was used to facilitate several aspects of the study including the measurement of distribution of reagent residues. The fabric treated to a high degree of uniformity of reagent residue distribution exhibited substantially higher abrasion resistance than the con ventional product when compared at equal levels of durable press appearance rating; it was slightly lower in strength properties. The product from lick roller treatment at optimum liquor pickup approached the high uniformity standard in uniformity of reagent residue distribution throughout the fabric thickness and in abrasion resistance. In breaking strength, tearing strength, and elongation (especially in the warp), this product from lick roller treatment performed close to the high uniformity standard. The performance of another product from lick roller treatment that involved lower liquor pickup is also described, Performance properties and distributions of reagent residues are discussed in detail.