Surface modification of polyester fabric by corona discharge irradiation

Polyester fabric was treated by corona discharge irradiation at different voltages. The treated fabric showed increased wicking and hydrophilic properties and the properties can be preserved for a long time. Dyeing of the treated fabric showed that dyeing speed and the dye-uptake were improved. Surface affinity between the treated fabric surface with modified starch sizing was also confirmed to be increased. This is generally useful for the sizing of polyester staple yarn and the polyester fabric dyeing. All the results are supposed due to the improved hydrophilic properties produced by the corona discharge treatment. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.