Characterization and Wrinkle Resistance Enhancement by Sol-Gel Method of Variously Pretreated Linen Fabrics

In this study, wrinkle resistant finish by sol-gel method was applied to the linen fabrics that were pretreated by three different ways as bleaching/causticization, bleaching/mercerization and only bleaching. The effects of these studied methods on linen fabrics were investigated by physical performance tests and characterization analyses, namely, FTIR-ATR, SEM and EDX. From the results of the study it can be said that sol-gel method was favorable in enhancement of wrinkle resistance of linen fabrics and mercerization as a pretreatment process provided more positive effects in terms of wrinkle resistance than the other pretreatment processes. Moreover, it was also observed that wrinkle resistant finish by sol-gel method did not lead to considerable changes in physical properties like strength and handle and in appearance properties like color. Characterization analyses confirmed the changes in chemical structure of the linen. In addition, sol-gel method was also indicated as ecological and advantageous due to non-formaldehyde release of chemical agents contrary to conventional wrinkle-resistant finishing agents.