Foam properties and application in dyeing cotton fabrics with reactive dyes

Abstract

The foam dyeing of cotton fabric with CI Reactive Red 120 has been studied as a low‐add‐on technology. The foamability of different types of foaming agent and the stability of foam stabilisers were compared. Factors influencing foam dyeing, including wet pick‐up, fixation agent, foam stabiliser, and blow ratio, were evaluated by colour strength and dye fixation rate. Wet pick‐up, fixation agent, and foam stabiliser were found to be the main factors in the foam dyeing process. The comparative build‐up properties, dyeing properties, and total consumption between foam dyeing and conventional dyeing were assessed. The results indicate that, in foam dyeing, the dyestuff has a better build‐up property, the dyed fabric has excellent wash and rub fastness, and large amounts of water and energy are saved. Moreover, foam dyeing requires smaller dosages of chemical agents and reduces the difficulty of effluent treatment.