Shrinkproof treatments

The detection of shrinkproof treatments is not itself part of damage analysis but it can contribute to clarifying cases of damage. To detect chlorinated wool and Hercosett shrinkproof treatments Bayer has suggested the following staining test ... 

Polymer films applied to wool as shrinkproofing treatments can also be selectively stained with optical brighteners and then detected by fluorescence microscopy. The levelness of their application can also be tested in this way the wool sample is treated with a 0.5% solution of the optical brightening agent Ciba Uvitex BHT 180% for 30 min at 0- 2 °C (cooled with ice) at a liquor ratio of about 1 100, then rinsed three times for half a minute each with cold water and dried. After UV excitation the polymer film can be recognized by its strong blue fluorescence. ... 

Some combing plants also produce shrink-resistant treated wool-top. The current process incorporates chlorination, and the appHcation of a shrinkproofing polymer. Chlorination is likely to be replaced soon by mote environmentally friendly treatments. 

Physical, as well as chemical, pretreatment processes have been combined with the enzyme treatment of wool. A low-temperature plasma is applied to the fibres prior to treatment with polymeric shrinkproofing agent [122]. Combined protease and heat treatment with a saturated steam [123] and the use of high frequency radiation on enzyme treated materials are reported. 

Rakowski, W., 1997. Plasma treatment of wool today, part I Fibre properties, spinning and shrinkproofing. J. Soc. Dyers Colour. 113, 250-255. 

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