Easy care lyocell

Studies of lyocell fabrics processed with conventional open width techniques demonstrate the virtues of lyocell with low-cost production techniques and have shown the excellent easy care performance that lyocell can deliver in combination with resin finishing. The softness, fluidity and drape characteristics shine through even without fibrillation. 

The application of 2-3% omf (on mass of fibre) fixed resin appears to be optimal for easy-care properties, dependant on the fabric constmction and weight. Application levels of 2% omf are needed to stop fibrillation on domestic washing. In addition to the resin, the choice of softener can have a large effect on the easy-care performance of fabrics, and it is important to consider the whole formulation and build it up to give the required performance. Silicone micro-emulsions penetrate yams more than the macro-emulsions. Polyethylene dispersions aid sewing and build the handle of the fabric, whilst some soft acrylic-based chemicals can increase the abrasion resistance. It is also worth remembering that caustic soda or liquid ammonia treatment in preparation will help to increase the easy-care rating of lyocell fabrics. 

The normal glyoxal-based easy-care resins significantly impair the dyeability of cellulosic fibres so they cannot be used as a treatment prior to dyeing. To prevent a lyocell fabric from fibrillating during jet dyeing for example, other types of cross-link chemicals had to be considered to modify the fibre s behaviour. 

Gandhi, K., Burkinshaw, S.M., Taylor, J.M. and Collins G.W., A novel route for obtaining a peach skin effect on lyocell and its blends , AATCC Review 2/4, 48-52, 2002. Taylor, J.M., Alwis, P., Harrington, L. and Geubtner, M., Easy Care Tencel Textiles , Melliand Textilberichte/Intemational Textile Reports (German Edition), 83, No. 3 E37-F, 2 pages, March 2002. 

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