Evaluation of Fabrics Woven with Durable Polymeric Sizing Agents

Abstract

From a laboratory evaluation of yarns treated with various polymers, two poly acrylates and a polyurethane offered the potential for further evaluation in full scale slashing and weaving trials. These aqueous polymeric emulsions were applied at room temperature in various combinations to cotton warp yarns (19.7 mg/m). The warps were woven into a 163 g/m 2 poplin fabric. Weaving evaluation demonstrated that some formulations presented problems with yarn clinging and polymer deposits, but one formulation produced a weaving performance equivalent to that of a warp slashed with a conventional starch formulation. The polymers were still present on warp yarns after pilot plant scouring and bleaching of fabrics. Durability was determined by fabric properties and confirmed by infrared spectroscopy. Data are presented on the physical properties of bleached fabrics and the effect of laboratory dyeing, mercerization, and durable-press treatment of experimental fabrics compared to a control fabric. Polymers, used as permanent sizing agents, offer opportunities for energy savings, less water pollution, and improved fabric properties after finishing.