The effect of functional finishes on surface characteristics of textile materials

The effect of finishes and laundering on the surface characteristics of 100% cotton, 100% polyester and 50/50 cotton/polyester fabrics have been investigated. Fabric finishes selected for this study include durable press, fluorocarbon soil release, and anti-static finishes. The surface characteristics measured in this study were fiber contact angle and liquid flow in fabrics. The liquid flow can be categorized into vertical wicking and demand wettability (horizontal wicking). Fabric pore size and pore size distribution were studied since the liquid flow in fibrous materials is affected by the pore size based on the Washburn equation. The amount of finishes on the fabrics was determined prior to the study of the surface properties. The finish add-on amounts on the fabrics depended upon the treatment level and types of finishes and fabrics.