Optimization of soil-release finishing processes of polyester fibers

[Excerpt] Introduction: Polyester fabrics are made from poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET), currently accounting for more than 50% of all fibrous materials. Their properties includehigh uniformity, mechanical strength and resistance against chemicals and abrasion. However, PET fibers produce an accumulation of electrostatic charges that attract and retain dirt. This problem can be minimized by improving fiber hydrophilicity through the chemical functionalization of PET. The present study aimed to develop a polyester fibers with chemical optimized soil-release properties using a simple finishing strategy, applicable at industrial level. [...]Authorswishing to acknowledge the Project UID/CTM/00264/2019 of2C2T –Centro de Ciência e Tecnologia Têxtil, funded by National Founds through FCT/MCTES