Modification of Cotton and Cotton-Polyester Blends with Epoxides

Abstract

Cotton polyester blend fabrics were treated with a variety of mono-and díepoxides with Zn(BF 4)2 as catalyst. Effect s of pad bath composition with respect to epoxide and catalyst concentrations, solvent, and curing conditions on fahric properties of various cotton polyester blends were evaluated. A 50 '50 blend fabric treated with either Araldite RD-2 or Eponite 100 attained wet and dry wrinkle recoveries of approximately 300 (W + F)° white retaining 80% of the original breaking strength and possessing better resistance to flex abrasion than a 100% cotton fabric of similar construction. Either watrr or methanol was an acceptable solvent for the padding solution.