Impact of high and zero formaldehyde crosslinkers on the performance of the dyed cotton fabric

Abstract

Performance of the colored cotton fabrics dyed with sulphur, vat, direct and reactive dyes was investigated by using two crosslinkers. DMDHEU was used as formaldehyde based crosslinker and BTCA was assessed as a zero formaldehyde alternative. Shade change of the fabrics treated with both crosslinkers was comparable and in acceptable range apart from all sulphur dyes and two reactive dyes. However, shade change of the sulphur dyed fabrics was significantly improved when typical sodium hypophosphite based catalyst for BTCA was replaced with sodium phosphate. In addition, tensile strength and easy care performance of the crosslinker treated dyed fabric was also assessed.

Keywords

• coloration: formaldehyde based crosslinkers
• polycarboxylic acid
• shade change
• textile easy care performance