Methylol Derivatives of Halo Cyanoacetamides and Their Evaluation on Cotton Fabrics1

Abstract

Methylol derivatives of dibromocyanoacetamide (DBCA) and dichlorocyanoacetamide (DCCA) were prepared and applied to cotton fabric by conventional techniques for methylolamide finishes. Fabric cross-linked with these two compounds had improved wrinkle recovery and flame resistance, accompanied by rather large strength losses. Since the best wrinkle recovery and flame resistance were obtained with DBCA, it was studied in more detail. The finish was fairly resistant to removal by base hydrolysis, but was more resistant to acid hydrolysis. This was attributed to the strongly electron- withdrawing cyano group and bromine atoms. The finish also imparted considerable rot resistance to cotton fabric. Both finishes were sensitive to relatively low tempera tures. Differential thermal analysis confirmed the low decomposition point of the treated fabric, which is probably a contributing factor to the flame resistance.