Application of low-molecular-weight chitosan in durable press finishing

The effect of using low-molecular-weight chitosan (LWCS) for anti-creasing treatments of cotton fabric was studied. The LWCS was mixed with dimethylol dihydroxyl ethylene urea (DMDHEU) to form the finishing agent. The addition of LWCS increased the tensile strength retention (TSR) and creasing resistance of the treated fabrics. The yellowing index and the softness of the treated fabrics became worse when the LWCS molecular weight decreased and the concentration as well as the curing temperature increased. The anti-wrinkle properties of all processed fabrics decreased markedly after washing 20 times. However, the softness of the fabric improved and the strength decreased slightly after the wash treatment.