Crease-resist finish: What effect does the application process have?

One problem with the crease-free finishing of cellulosic fibres is that fibre extensibility is reduced, with a resultant loss of strength. The problems of resin migration to the fabric surface during pre-drying can be resolved successfully by the use of low-liquor application techniques, such as foam technology. A 50/50 polyester/cotton fabric was finished by the foam and the conventional padding processes. The fabrics were tested for % of total solids application, abrasion resistance, crease resistance and fear strength. Both finishing routes (pad mangle and foam impregnation) improved the crease recovery. The longer the foam penetration time, the better the abrasion resistance, crease resistance and tear strength. Short penetration times do not lead to particularly good physical properties.