Tensile Strength Loss of Mercerized and Crosslinked Ramie Fabric

Abstract

Ramie fabric subjected to a wrinkle-free treatment experiences severe losses mechan ical properties, which is the main obstacle to developing wrinkle-free ramie goods. In this study, 1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylic acid (BTCA) is used as the crosslinking agent on ramie fabric to acquire wrinkle-free properties. Tensile strength losses in treated ramie, tension- mercerized ramie, slack-mercerized ramie, and cotton fabrics are investigated for acid degradation and the crosslinking reaction of cellulose molecular chains. Tensile strength loss in the treated fabrics are closely associated with the fine structure of the fibers, such as the degree of polymerization, crystallinity, accessibility, and orientation. The high crystallinity and low accessibility of ramie fibers lead to a non-uniform distribution of crosslinks, resulting in severe tensile strength loss.