Influence of pH in Washing on the Formaldehyde-Release Properties of Durable-Press Cotton

Abstract

Application of buffered solutions to test specimens in the AATCC jar test revealed the important role of pH on the formaldehyde-release properties of durable-press cottons. The relationship between pH in washing and formaldehyde release was established for various durable-press finishing systems (agent/catalyst treatment combinations). Based upon this information, differences and seemingly inconsistent formaldehyde-release values from the washing of finished fabrics can be explained. Generally, the pH range for best formaldehyde-release properties is between pH 3 and pH 7. Laundering at various geographical sites gave results that correlate with the pH of the wash water; these data showed that formaldehyde release increases with wash-water pH.

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