ALKALINE WEIGHT REDUCTION

By

GORE SATEESH
DIRECTOR
ELECTRON GROUP.INDIA
Modification of polyester fiber has been necessitated to overcome several inherent Basic
Shortcomings in the Polyester fiber properties.
The majority of drawbacks include very low moisture absorption (0.4% moisture regain)
And poor dye ability due to high degree of “Hydrophobicity” of the fiber molecular
Structure and compactness of polymer structure.
Specifically Weight Reduction is done to the Heavy Polyester Fabric to modify Polyester
Fiber either partially or fully by co– polymerization or by treating Polyester Fiber with
Alkali / Acid/ Organic solvents treatments
To achieve the desirable properties by modifying the fiber in its physical characteristics were
As mentioned. Among these, the “Weight reduction’ of polyester by partial Alkaline
Hydrolysis is not only less expensive, with better & favorable results in improved physical
And comfort properties.
The weight reduction of polyester is nothing but “Saponification” of “Terephthallic Ester
(one of the major raw material from Polyester Fiber). caused by sodium hydroxide under a
Suitable wetting Agent “Catalyst “Terrysolve” by partial alkaline hydrolysis causing the
Progressive “Weight reduction” of polyester fiber in the surface, resulting small extent of
Loss of mass, where the other favorable properties of it remains almost unchanged or
Changes for better effects.
The mechanism and structural aspect of polyester fibers after partial Alkaline Hydrolysis has
Been also reported. The weight reduction treatment is thus a major breakthrough to obtained
‘Skin Care Polyester Fabric. The various Trials conducted for controlled weight loss in
Polyester textiles after identifying suitable Catalysts for this treatment.
To achieve 15% Weight Reduction, at the optimum treatment conditions at 5% NaOH
The Product” Catalyst “Terrysolve” were used 0.5 % OW F for 60 min at 90°C .obtained
Optimum result as required by buyers from “Surat, India.’ where India’s Largest Quantity of
Polyester fabric is processed for the Weight Reduction..