Modifications of Textiles by Glow‐discharge Reactions

Abstract

Glow‐discharge polymerisation of acrylic acid, allyl alcohol, vinyl fluoride, 1,1‐difluoroethylene, and tetrafluoroethylene on to textile fabrics results in interesting modifications of their properties, including improved antisoil and soil‐release properties of Terylene and nylon 6.6, improved water repellency of Terylene and cotton, and improved dyeability of Terylene with basic dyes. The resistance to soiling of Terylene is markedly improved by a very short treatment in an argon glow discharge; possible mechanisms are outlined. Prolonged exposure of Terylene to an argon glow discharge results in an unusual ‘sea‐shore’ structure running perpendicular to the fibre axis.