Introduction of Ester Cross Links into Cotton Cellulose by a Rapid Curing Process

The reaction of polycarboxylic acids with cotton at elevated temperature has been investigated as a function of partial neutralization of the carboxylic acid with sodium carbonate or triethylamine. A high level of cellulose cross-linking was realized with a variety of polycarboxylic acids having three or more carboxyl groups per molecule, although only partial esterihcation of the carboxyl groups occurs in this process. The use of polycarhoxylic acids in the form of their partial salts results in broader applicability of this rapid esterification process of cross-linking, in improved add-ons and performance characteristics of the modified cotton, and in reduced acid tendering of the treated fabrics.