The term “mercerization” refers to a physico-chemical process that involves the treatment of textiles, mainly cotton, with a solution of caustic soda (NaOH) in order to enhance qualities such as smoothness, fiber strength, shrinkage resistance, luster, and color affinity. Through the process of expanding and rearranging the cellulose structure of the cotton fiber, this treatment transforms the fiber from an ordinary cotton fiber into something exceptional. The tensile strength of the fibers is increased, their surface qualities are improved, their softness is enhanced, and they become more stable and physically compact, which grants them a shiny look. All of these benefits are achieved via this procedure. 20–30% savings on dye and chemicals throughout the dyeing process following the mercerizing step. It has a high level of desirability, and its effect can be seen in the manufacture of high-quality textiles in the modern business world. Mercerized cotton fiber is a popular choice for a variety of textile applications due to the fact that it has a vibrant color, a sumptuous gloss, and increased durability.
Methods of Physicochemical Analysis:
Physical changes include:
A lumen may be seen in the center of the X-section of cotton fiber that is shaped like a kidney.
The cellulose of the fiber begins to expand when it is exposed to an aquatic sodium hydroxide solution.
An elliptical form is immediately assumed by the fiber that is contained inside the X-section.
The portion comes to an end after continuing to swell.
Up until the luman is no longer present, the breadth of the fibers will rise by at least 25–30%, and the cellulose wall will expand inward.
After the washing process, the cellulose begins to contract and become more compact.
Following drying, there is a final and further shrinking that takes place, and the lumen does not return.
Chemical changes include:
- The production of alkali cellulose is seen when native cellulose, also known as Cellulose-I, is mixed with concentrated sodium hydroxide. Cellulose-II is produced on the basis of neutralization and washing operations.
- Alkali is able to permeate the lattice, which results in the breakage of internal hydrogen bonds and an increase of about 25 percent in the quantity of OH that is accessible in cellulose II.
As a consequence of this, the mercerized cotton has a greater affinity for water, dye, and other material types.
The Effects of the Mercerizing Process on the World:
The enhanced strength may be attributed to the following:
- An increase in the orientation of the molecules
- Taking out the lumen is done.
- This results in a reduction in the number of weak fiber connections, which is caused by length-wise shrinking.
As a consequence of, both absorbency and dye affinity are increased.
- Extend the region that is amorphous.
- A modification to the structure of the crystal
- An increase in the number of OH groups that are accessible may contribute to dye affinity.
A greater degree of luster as a consequence of:
- In the X-section, the kidney seems to have a shape that is almost spherical.
- There is either a de-convolution or a reduction in the convolution twist.
- It is possible to get greater transparency and surface roughness.
The Mercerizing Condition Is Affected by the Following Factors:
The luster of anything may be affected by temperature changes. There is a correlation between lower temperatures and greater luster, dye affinity, and tension, all of which are necessary to avoid shrinking.
The cloth is being destroyed by a number of further treatments.
Mercerization that does not include tension leads to shrinkage and a loss of luster in the product.
The dye absorption and tensile strength of the material are both improved by a caustic concentration of up to 13%.
There is a discernible increase in both the tenacity and the elastic modulus as the mercerizing tension increases.
The wetting ingredient that is included inside the mercerizing fluid helps to expedite the process by enabling NaOH to enter the material in a rapid and efficient manner.
It is important to take into consideration the cost of the wetting agent before applying it.
The caustic concentration drops as both the temperature and the amount of time rise.
The process of merchandising cotton fabric includes:
Using a padded mangle that is filled with a 55°–65° Tw NaOH solution, fabric that has been washed and bleached is passed through the mangle while being subjected to strain for two to three minutes.
It is possible to squeeze supported cloth with the help of a squeezing rollar.
Next, wash the item in the right tension using both hot (70 degrees Celsius) and cold water.
It is necessary to apply 1° Tw H2SO4 to the cloth that has been washed in order to remove any residual caustic.
The cloth is then washed and dried in cold water when that step is completed.
In use:
As a result of its enhanced shine, vibrant colors, better extended endurance, and lower shrinking, it is an alternative that is preferred for both producers and buyers. Mercerized cotton yarn is widely accessible in a variety of items that prioritize comfort, appearance, and durability. These products include luxurious fitted dress socks and attractive outerwear, as well as beautiful bed linens and silky towels. The following are examples of types of products that regularly make use of mercerized cotton:
- The bed linens.
- The towels
- The T-shirt
- Putting Together Outfits: Designer Socks
- The tablecloths
Advantages include:
There are a number of benefits that come with using mercerized cotton yarn as opposed to untreated cotton. The following are some of these advantages:
- Improvements in both brightness and smoothness
- The pigment is absorbed more effectively.
- More resistance to pulling than before
- The shrinking of the fabrics has been reduced.
Influence on the Environment:
Although there are apparent benefits associated with mercerized cotton yarns, it is important to take into consideration the environmental impacts that are caused by the mercerization process. It is possible that the procedure may cause damage to the environment due to the use of chemicals such as caustic soda and the consumption of water resources. However, the environmental harm that is caused by chemical mercerization may be mitigated by the use of procedures that are beneficial to the environment. Putting into practice strategies such as reusing mercerization effluent, treating wastewater to remove chemicals, and employing membrane technology to recover caustic soda are some of the ways in which textile mills may lessen the effect that this process has on the environment. As the market for mercerized cotton goods continues to expand, the textile industry must prioritize the development of processes that are both ethical and sustainable in order to lessen the effect that mercerization has on both the economy and the environment.
CARE:
To ensure that mercerized fabric continues to be of high quality and durability, it is essential to provide it with the appropriate maintenance. In general, mercerized cotton may be cared for in the following ways, however specific directions for taking care of it may vary depending on the product:
If the label on the garment or yarn specifies otherwise, you may either wash it by hand or by machine.
It is recommended that you use cold water and detergents that are not harmful to the fabric since the fabric may become more damaged if you use hot water or powerful chemicals.
Immediately after the washing process, remove any excess moisture by lying the item down flat or wrapping it in an absorbent towel, and then allow it to air dry. This will provide the best possible results.
