Modified cellulosic fibers

A method for preparing modified cellulosic fibers which comprises the steps of:

• (a) applying up to 5% of N,N-methylenebiscarylamide by dry weight of said fibers;
• (b) applying an amount of alkali equivalent in alkali strength to up to ten parts sodium hydroxide to fiber by weight;
• (c) maintaining the consistency of said fibers at at least 10% so that a continuous aqueous phase around said fibers is absent and maintaining the temperature of said treated fibers below the boiling point of water throughout step (a) or (b) whichever is performed later, if performed separately or throughout steps (a) and (b) if performed simultaneously;
• and
• (d) excluding free radical initiators and air from the fibers treated in accordance with steps (a) and (b) until the modification reaction is complete.