Reaction Mechanisms, Structure, and Properties of Methylol Compounds in Cross-Linking Cotton1

Abstract

Kinetic and thermodynamic studies on the formation and dissociation of N-methylol compounds, as well as a study of their equilibrium states in relation to concentration, temperature, and catalysts, on the cross-linking of N-methylol and N-alkoxymethyl compounds with nucleophilic reactants, such as the hydroxy groups of cellulose, on the stability of the N-alkoxymethyl compounds in alkaline and acid media, and on the processes involved in chlorine retention, have led to an explanation of the mechanisms underlying these reactions, and to an understanding of the influence of such factors as electron density at the nitrogen atom (as determined by the methylolation rate in general or by the carbonyl wave number. in the case of ureas and acid amides), basic centers, possible steric hindrance and anchimeric groups on the application properties of these substances. Regular relationships have been established between their chemical consti tution and properties, which make possible a more reliable prediction of the scope of the effects obtainable with methylol compounds.