Polybutadiene Shrink-Resist and Durable-Press Finishes for Wool

Abstract

Liquid low-molecular-weight polybutadienes have been investigated as potential shrink-resist finishes for wool. These polymers could be crosslinked thermally, but a better method used reactions of functional end-groups such as amino, carboxyl, or hydroxyl. For example, polybutadienes with hydroxyl or carboxyl groups could be crosslinked on wool with polyisocyanates, and aminopoly-butadienes with polyepoxides. Many of these polybutadiene finishes imparted a high level of shrink resistance to an untreated worsted wool fabric, and the properties of fabrics treated by some of these have been compared. Durable-press finishes were produced with polybutadienes, including a delayed-cure treatment.