Formaldehyde-free Durable Press Fisnishing Based on Polymaleic Acid Chemistry

摘要

Cross-linking mechanisms are discussed with thermal analysis and FTIR data suggesting that the wrinkle-resistant effects produced by polymaleic acid result from formation of ester bonds, via cyclic anhydrides. The characteristics of polymaleic acid resins are outlined, using molecular modelling to demonstrate their potential to penetrate cotton fibres and form multiple cross-links. The persistence of these bonds through multiple wash cycles is investigated. The CROSSLINK cotton-finishing system is based on polymaleic acid chemistry and trial data are used to show that this formaldehyde-free technology produces wrinkle-resistance/durable press performance comparable with DMDHEU, together with significantly enhanced secondary properties.