EPICHLOROHYDRIN-POLY(ACRYLIC ACID) REACTION-PRODUCTS IN EASY-CARE FINISHING OF 50 50 POLYESTER/COTTON BLEND FABRICS/

Polyester/cotton blend fabric samples (50/50) were given an easy-care finishing in the presence of epichlorohydrin-poly (acrylic acid) react ion products. Factors affecting the process, such as epichlorohydrin c oncentration, poly (acrylic acid) concentration, DMDHEU concentration, catalyst type and softener type, were studied. Comparing the fabric p roperties finished in the absence with those finished in the presence of epichlorohydrin - poly (acrylic acid) reaction products, shows that the enhancement in percent add-on, nitrogen content, tensile strength retention, breaking extension, flexural rigidity, carboxyl content, a ffinity to basic dyeing as well as stain release ratings are more pron ounced in the latter than the former case. However, the wrinkle recove ry angle of the latter is lower that of the former, but its value is a cceptable.