Modification of Wool by the Application of Linear Synthetic Polyamides

Abstract

The presence of foreign materials such as soaps and oils on wool interferes with the deposi tion of N-alkoxymethyl polyamides when used for the prevention of felting shrinkage. If the wool is rigorously cleaned by ethanol extraction or if the fiber surface is modified by pretreatment with hydrogen peroxide or other reagent, then the resin is able to attain its maximum effect and approximately 3% resin (based on the weight of the wool) is sufficient to prevent felting shrinkage. It is suggested that both forms of pretreatment tend to improve adhesion between resin and fiber and so render the resin deposit more effective in preventing felting.