Dependence of reactive prints of cotton fabrics on type and condition of the scouring system

Abstract

The effect of scouring systems, i.e. bioscouring and conventional scouring, of cotton fabrics on the printability of the latter by a reactive dye was studied. Parameters affecting the bioscouring process, namely concentration of alkaline pectinase enzyme in single use and in admixture with cellulase enzyme and duration of bioscouring process as well as pretreatment with β‐cyclodextrin at different concentrations followed by bioscouring on the printability, were also studied. The printed substrates, obtained with fabrics that have been bioscoured under those conditions along with fabric conventionally scoured using sodium hydroxide, were evaluated for colour strength, handle and overall fastness properties to washing, rubbing and perspiration. Results obtained bring into focus the most appropriate bioscouring conditions of cotton fabric for optimal printability. Fabrics processed according to the most appropriate conditions of bioscouring exhibit overall printing characteristics which are comparable with, if not superior than, those obtained with conventional scouring. Prints obtained with bioscouring using alkaline pectinase and cellulase enzymes exhibit K/S of 19.77; this is compared with K/S of 18.35 for conventional scouring. This is in addition to replacing the harsh chemicals with eco‐friendly biodegradable enzymes.