Sizing composition, method of preparing same and fibrous material sized with same

Abstract

A strength enhancing composition for treating textile materials in the sizing or dyeing process has been developed by the encapsulation or occlusion of colloidal silica particles with a water reducible polyester resin of intermediate molecular weight. The complex formation of the resin colloidal silica species is accomplished in an aqueous medium. The resin is prepared from isophthalic acid, diethylene glycol and trimellitic axhydride followed by neutralization with amine containing material to render the resin reducible in water. The composition may be combined with any of the conventional size materials, i.e. polyvinyl alcohol, starches, lubricants, etc., to enhance the performance of the sizing composition. The silica/resin complex may be formed in situ, or may be preformed, dried and pulverized for later use or for mixing with conventional, dry, sizing materials. The composition may be applied to textile yarns using conventional equipment, such as yarn slashers or dye machines, with the treated textile material having enhanced strength and performance characteristics.

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