Cleaner process for shrink proofing of wool using ultraviolet radiation and sericin

Conventional shrink proofing technologies for wool are based on use of strong chemicals, such as chlorine to enhance surface hydrophilicity, followed by application of a chemical coating to mask the scales. This process, though effective, results in the production of polluted wastewaters containing large quantities of chloro-organic compounds. In the current study, surface modification was carried out using a dry process of irradiating wool with 172nm radiation, followed by treatment with a reclaimed biopolymer sericin to mask the scales. The paper examines the effect of process parameters, such as the duration of irradiation, pH of bath, and concentration of sericin on area shrinkage. Wool fabrics irradiated for 5min followed by padding with 5gpl of sericin at pH 4 showed zero area shrinkage with no loss in strength. Fabric appearance remains smooth even after multiple washes. Shrink proof wool also showed improved uptake of acid dyes with good fastness to washing, light, and rubbing. The proposed shrink resist process is effective and sustainable as it is a water- and chlorine-free treatment and makes use of a natural polymer reclaimed from industrial effluent as an effective substitute for chemical polymers.