One-Step Wet-Fixation Deposition Process for Cotton Using Low Add-Ons of Resin

Abstract

An improved process for precure or postcure durable-press, colored cotton fabrics has been developed through the pilot-plant stage. In an efficient use of reagents, resins are deposited or fixed in the swollen cotton fiber and then cured to produce a highly wrinkle-resistant fabric with a minimum of strength and abrasion losses. The steaming, under drying conditions, of fabric impregnated with melamine resins and a cross-linking agent at pH 3.5–6 provides the necessary deposition and “fixation” reaction. Curing of the steamed fabric completes the polymerization and cross-linking required for the process. Details are presented which were selected to assist in the commercialization of this process. It is believed the degrees of freedom available in the steaming conditions and choice of reagents and acidity are general enough to assure a successful scale-up.