GB358593A - Improvements relating to the treatment of fabrics containing organic derivatives of cellulose - Google Patents

Abstract

A finishing treatment for textile materials made of or containing an organic ester or ether of cellulose comprises treatment with an albuminoid substance such as gelatin or casein and with formaldehyde or a compound yielding formaldehyde. Thus the material may be steeped in a solution of gelatin and thereafter immersed in a solution of formaldehyde or subjected to the action of gaseous formaldehyde, but a finish more resistant to scouring is obtained when the albuminoid substance and the formaldehyde are applied in admixture. Casein is applied in presence of alkali. The treated material may be dried in a stretched condition, e.g. on a stenter, and then ironed, or may be dried in contact with a smooth surface, e.g. by subjecting it to a calendering operation. In an example a fabric made of cellulose acetate yarn is steeped for 1 hour in a cold 1,4 per cent gelatin solution to every 100 parts of which have been added 5 parts or more of 45 per cent formaldehyde solution, and the material is then dried on a calender; fabric so treated is firm and has a soft, glossy appearance. The process is applicable also to mixed materials containing organic derivatives of cellulose together with other fibres such as cotton, wool, silk, or regenerated cellulose. The Provisional Specification refers also to keratin as a suitable albuminoid substance.