2F Finishes

Question 1

Why do we apply finishes to fabrics?

Answer 1

To enhance the function, aesthetics and fabric life(protection)

Question 2

What is embossing?

Answer 2

Using engraved rollers(calendaring) to emboss patterns

Question 3

Features of embossing

Answer 3

The patterns will disappear when the fabric is washed/ironed unless a synthetic fibre is heat-set

The patterns can be made more permanent on cotton fabrics by impregnating it with a synthetic resin

Question 4

Applications for embossing

Answer 4

Interior design: e.g. upholstery and drapery

Question 5

What is glazing(calendaring)?

Answer 5

Using heat and pressure to smooth, compact and add lustre(shine) to fabric surfaces

The fabric is passed through heated rollers that can be set to rotate at different speeds and temps. - friction flattens and polishes the surface of the fabric

Question 6

Features of glazing/calendaring

Answer 6

Th effects of this process are usually short-lived

Question 7

Applications for glazing(calendaring)

Answer 7

Moire effects: watermark pattern produced when two ribbed fabrics are calendared OR with engraved rollers

Polyester boat sails/parachutes: compacting the surface of fabrics with thermoplastic fibres can make the fabric less porous - weft and warp yarns are pushed closer together

Question 8

What is brushing/raising?

Answer 8

Creating a nap which traps air - making the fabric softer and warmer to wear

This is done by passing the fabric through a raising machine with many rollers and small wire hooks, to tease fibre ends to the surface (fluffy) - this can cause the fabric to become weaker

Question 9

Features of brushing/raising

Answer 9

• increases the flammability of the fabric
• durable

Question 10

Applications for brushing/raising

Answer 10

Often used on cotton fabrics and polyester fleece fabrics

Question 11

What is a flame retardant finish?

Answer 11

Prevents the fabric from igniting or prevents it from burning quickly

Question 12

Types of flame retardant finishes

Answer 12

Proban/Pyrovatex:
- can make the fabric stiff and reduce its tearing strength
- expensive to apply
- can degrade with washing

Zirpro: used on wool fabrics when a high level of flame protection is required

Metal coated fabrics: used to make garments that can protect against flames, e.g. aluminised clothing worn by welders in industrial settings

Question 13

Applications for flame retardant finishes

Answer 13

Nightwear: fabrics used in these products are required by law to be flame retardant - cotton/viscose fabrics can be treated with Proban/Pyrovatex. containing a polymer that is trapped within the fibres

Question 14

What is moth proofing?

Answer 14

Involves impregnating wool fibres with chemicals that make the fibres inedible, protecting the fibres against moth attack

This happens as wool’s chemical structure include a sulphur molecule that attracts moths - the larvae feed on the fibres after eggs are laid and hatched

Question 15

Types of moth proofing finishes

Answer 15

Mittin and Dielmoth

Question 16

What are water resistant finishes?

Answer 16

Finishes that protect fabrics from waterborne stains and protects fabrics from water penetration, making them easier to care for

Question 17

Types of water resistant finishes

Answer 17

Scotchgard: silicone treatment that shields the fabric

Teflon: a surface finish that provides an invisible barrier to prevent water/oil-based stains or rain from penetrating the fibres - this finish does not affect the feel/appearance/breathability of the fabric (easier to iron)

Nanotech finishes (e.g. Nanosphere): makes fabrics hydrophobic - water can be repelled and stains can be rinsed off with water

Question 18

Applications for water resistant finishes

Answer 18

Teflon: used on clothing (school uniforms), household products, raincoats, tents

Question 19

What are crease resistant finishes?

Answer 19

Finishes that prevent fabrics from developing creases easily when worn/used, making them easy-care

The finish is applied by passing the fabric through a liquid containing synthetic resins, which enter the fibres in the form of small molecules - it is then held flat and smooth then heated, to cure the resin, causing the resin and fibre molecules to link permanently within the fibre

Question 20

Features of crease resistant finishes

Answer 20

• will last the lifetime of the product
• makes fabrics resistant to shrinking
• can reduce the tearing strength and resistance to abrasion

Question 21

Applications for crease resistant finishes

Answer 21

Commonly used in dress-shirts, blouses, dresses, etc.

Question 22

What is coating with PVC?

Answer 22

This finish enhances the durability of a fabric by making it water and stain proof

Question 23

Features of coating with PVC

Answer 23

• changes the handle
• stiffer
• reduces drape

Question 24

Applications for coating with PVC

Answer 24

• often coated on cotton fabrics, where the grain is visible under the coating - e.g. tablecloths/aprons
• soft play area shapes/toys

Question 25

What are anti-static finishes?

Answer 25

Where (semi) permanent chemicals are applied to synthetic fabrics to reduce fabric surface conductivity - by increasing the moisture content

Question 26

Features of anti-static finishes

Answer 26

The provided lubrication can reduce frictional forces and improve the feel and finish of the fabric

Chemicals can eventually wash out: but additional processes/energy costs/environmental impacts need to be considered

Question 27

Applications for anti-static finishes

Answer 27

Floors for: cleanrooms (e.g., the food industry), medical facilities (e.g., operating rooms)

Question 28

What are shrink resistant finishes

Answer 28

These finishes prevent (cellulosic/wool) fibres from swelling when wet, which causes the fibre to shorten

This is done by using resin, which enters the fibres as small molecules and joins within the fibres during the curing process

Question 29

Applications for shrink resistant finishes

Answer 29

Application of wool in apparels, quilts, curtains, pillows, and bedding