Effect of different mercerization techniques on tactile comfort of cotton fabric

Abstract

The effect of different mercerization techniques on tactile comfort properties of woven cotton fabric has been studied. Desized, scoured and bleached cotton fabrics are subjected to four different mercerization treatments at two levels of temperature (20°C and 65°C) under two different conditions (tension and slack). Non-mercerized fabric is served as control. Results show that mercerization treatments improve the tensile strength of cotton fabrics owing to reduced fibre crystallinity after mercerization. Highest increase in tensile strength is observed in case of hot mercerization in slack condition. Increase in low-stress mechanical properties, such as tensile energy, bending rigidity and shear rigidity values, indicates higher stiffness/toughness of mercerized fabrics. This is further reflected in their high Koshi (stiffness/firmness), low Sofutosa (softness) and medium Fukurami (fullness) values. However, mercerization causes significant decrease in frictional coefficient and surface roughness, and results in improved total hand value (THV). Total hand values range from 3 to 3.61; with highest being presented by fabric mercerized under hot and slack conditions. High hand value indicates fair suitability of this fabric in wear comfort.