US 6,464,730 B1 · Process for applying softeners to fabrics

Abstract

The present invention is generally directed to a process for making fabrics containing cotton fibers more aesthetically pleasing and resistant to staining by anionic dyes by derivatizing the cotton so that it exhibits a permanent anionic charge. By increasing the anionic charge of the fibers, the fibers become resistant to anionic coloring agents which may undesirably come into contact with the fibers and the fibers can absorb greater amounts of cationic softeners and biocides. Furthermore, the negative charges repel each other resulting in a fabric with greater loft and hydrophilicity. This results in greater smoothness, better hand, and more comfort. Besides being used to prevent the cross-staining of fabrics, the present invention can also be used to make carpet materials resistant to anionic staining agents.

Claims23

Dependent claims

A process for increasing the softness of a textile product containing cotton fibers, said process comprising the steps of:

contacting cotton fibers used to make said textile product with a solution containing a sulfating agent;
heating said cotton fibers to a temperature sufficient for said sulfating agent to react with said cotton fibers, said sulfated cotton fibers having an increased anionic charge, said sulfating agent reacting with said cotton fibers in an amount such that said cotton fibers contain sulfur in an amount less than 0.5% by weight;
contacting said cotton fibers with a solution containing a softener, said softener forming a bond with said sulfated cotton fibers.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Process for applying softeners to fabrics

Life of this patent

Process for applying softeners to fabrics

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims23