Protective Treatments for Cotton Awnings

Abstract

The cooperative research program of the USDA's Southern Utilization Research Branch and the National Canvas Goods Manufacturers' Association for improvement in the durability of cotton awnings and other outdoor fabrics is described, and the preliminary weathering exposure studies performed under the joint program are pre sented. Data were obtained on a number of laboratory experimental and proprietary weather-resistant treatments for awning fabrics that had been exposed to outdoor weathering. Laboratory-prepared coatings and standard commercial coatings are com pared after twelve months' weather exposure. Data are presented to demonstrate the increase in weather durability of heavy duty cotton sewing threads treated by the vat dyeing and acetylation process.