Effects of corona discharge treatment on the surface properties of wool fabrics

Wool fabric was treated by corona discharge and treating conditions were optimized. The surface properties of the treated wool fabrics, such as hydrophilicity and dyeability with natural dyes, have been investigated. After the corona discharge treatment, the hydrophilicity of the wool fabric was improved and the dyeability with Rhizoma coptidis was increased. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images indicated that some epicuticle scales on the wool surface became loose. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic (XPS) analyses show the oxygen contents of the wool surface were increased and sulphur contents decreased after treatment.