2F Finishes Flashcards
Why do we apply finishes to fabrics?
To enhance the function, aesthetics and fabric life(protection)
What is embossing?
Using engraved rollers(calendaring) to emboss patterns
Features of embossing
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
Applications for embossing
Interior design: e.g. upholstery and drapery
What is glazing(calendaring)?
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
Features of glazing/calendaring
Th effects of this process are usually short-lived
Applications for glazing(calendaring)
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
What is brushing/raising?
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
Features of brushing/raising
- increases the flammability of the fabric
- durable
Applications for brushing/raising
Often used on cotton fabrics and polyester fleece fabrics
What is a flame retardant finish?
Prevents the fabric from igniting or prevents it from burning quickly
Types of flame retardant finishes
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
Applications for flame retardant finishes
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
What is moth proofing?
Involves impregnating wool fibres with chemicals that make the fibres inedible, protecting the fibres against moth attack
This happens as wool’s chemical structure includes a sulphur molecule that attracts moths - the larvae feed on the fibres after eggs are laid and hatched
Types of moth proofing finishes
Mittin and Dielmoth
What are water resistant finishes?
Finishes that protect fabrics from waterborne stains and protects fabrics from water penetration, making them easier to care for
Types of water resistant finishes
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
Applications for water resistant finishes
Teflon: used on clothing (school uniforms), household products, raincoats, tents
What are crease resistant finishes?
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
Features of crease resistant finishes
- will last the lifetime of the product
- makes fabrics resistant to shrinking
- can reduce the tearing strength and resistance to abrasion
Applications for crease resistant finishes
Commonly used in dress-shirts, blouses, dresses, etc.
What is coating with PVC?
This finish enhances the durability of a fabric by making it water and stain proof
Features of coating with PVC
- changes the handle
- stiffer
- reduces drape
Applications for coating with PVC
- often coated on cotton fabrics, where the grain is visible under the coating - e.g. tablecloths/aprons
- soft play area shapes/toys
What are anti-static finishes?
Where (semi) permanent chemicals are applied to synthetic fabrics to reduce fabric surface conductivity - by increasing the moisture content
Features of anti-static finishes
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
Applications for anti-static finishes
Floors for: cleanrooms (e.g., the food industry), medical facilities (e.g., operating rooms)
What are shrink resistant finishes
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
Applications for shrink resistant finishes
Application of wool in apparels, quilts, curtains, pillows, and bedding
