Evaluation of Finishing Processes for Linen Fabrics Using the Kawabata Evaluation System

摘要

The main problems of linen textiles are roughness, stiffness, and wrinkling tendency. To solve these problems, different finishing processes are necessary. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of different finishing processes such as enzymatic treatment with cellulases, softening process with micro-silicone softener, and wrinkle resistance treatment with modified-DMDHEU (dimethyloldihydroxyethyleneurea), on the mechanical properties of linen fabric. The bio-polishing of linen fabrics was performed in laboratory type exhausting machine. The softening and wrinkle resistance processes were realized with laboratory padder for impregnation and laboratory stenter for drying and curing. The Kawabata Evaluation System was used to test tensile, bending, and shearing properties of linen fabric treated with different finishing processes. Moreover, the wrinkle recovery angles (WRAs) of untreated and treated samples were also investigated according to DIN 53890. It was found that the bio-polishing process is important like softening processes in accordance with the softness feel of linen fabric. While the WRA of the treated fabrics had increased, the mechanical properties (tensile, shear, and bending) of fabrics did not change significantly.