Simultaneous Fixation of Wrinkle-Free Finish and Reactive Dye on Cotton Using Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

In printing and resin finishing of cotton fabrics, the curing step is involved twice, firstly for fixation of reactive dye and secondly for the fixation of resin for proper cross-linking. In developing country like Pakistan, where cotton is a major portion of textile exports, the elimination of one fixation stage is economical and advantageous. This study dealt with the simultaneous fixation of wrinkle-free finish (resin) and reactive dye printing for cost effectiveness. The processed route of treatment imparted a maximum dry crease recovery angle of 230° and color strength up to 89.89%. The produced fabrics were characterized using crocking fastness (dry and wet), color strength sum %, color fastness to laundry, crease recovery angle, and wrinkle recovery by appearance method. Response surface optimizer gave good composite desirability value (0.08300) with color strength % of up to 73.73 and dry crease recovery angle up to 218°.