Introduction:
Parchmentization is a process used to impart parchment like appearance with improved strength and stability of cotton fabrics. It involves treating the fabric with sulfuric acid to make it more durable and resistant to wear and tear. This process has been used for centuries, and is still used today in a variety of applications.
Working Procedure of Parchmentization Process:
- At first, the fabric is soaked in a solution of sulfuric acid and water. The concentration of sulfuric acid used in this step can vary depending on the type of fabric being treated, but typically ranges from 30% to 70%.
- The fabric is left in the acid solution for a period of time, typically ranging from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the desired outcome.
- After soaking, the fabric is washed thoroughly with water to remove any remaining acid. This is an important step, as any residual acid can weaken the fabric and cause it to degrade over time.
- Then the fabric is dried and stretched or pressed to improve its strength and stability.
- The final step in the parchmentization process is to treat the fabric with a neutralizing agent, such as sodium bicarbonate or ammonia. This step is important because it helps to neutralize any remaining acid in the fabric, and also helps to improve its texture and appearance.
Effects / Benefits of Parchmentization Process in Textile:
- One of the key benefits of parchmentization is that it can significantly improve the strength and durability of fabrics. Research has shown that parchmentized cotton fabrics can have up to 50% higher tensile strength than untreated cotton fabrics.
- This increased strength can be particularly beneficial in applications where the fabric will be subjected to heavy use, such as in upholstery, clothing, or industrial applications.
- Parchmentization can also improve the water resistance and flame retardant of fabrics. For example, parchmentized wool fabrics have been shown to have improved water resistance, while parchmentized cotton fabrics have been shown to be more resistant to flame than untreated cotton fabrics.
- Another benefit of parchmentization is that it can improve the dimensional stability of fabrics. This means that the fabric is less likely to shrink or stretch when exposed to changes in temperature or humidity. This can be particularly important in applications where precise sizing and fit are critical, such as in clothing or upholstery.
Drawbacks / Limitations of Parchmentization:
- Despite many benefits, parchmentization does have some drawbacks. One of the biggest drawbacks is the environmental impact of the process. Sulfuric acid is a hazardous chemical that can cause pollution and harm to the environment if not handled properly.
- In addition, the process can be costly and time-consuming, particularly for large-scale applications.
Alternatives of Parchmentization:
In recent years, there has been increasing interest in developing alternative methods of fabric treatment that are more environmentally friendly and cost-effective. For example, some researchers are exploring the use of enzymes or other natural substances to improve the strength and durability of fabrics. Others are investigating the use of nanotechnology or other advanced materials to enhance the performance of fabrics.
Conclusion:
Despite these challenges, parchmentization remains an important process for improving the strength and stability of fabrics. Its long history and continued use in a wide range of applications are a testament to its effectiveness and durability. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see new and innovative approaches to fabric treatment that build on the foundation of parchmentization and other traditional methods.
Working as head of the dept. of Wet Process Engineering at Textile Engineering College, Zorargonj, Chattogram. He is also CEO at TEC Media and advisor at Textile Engineers Club. He hosts textile related online program ‘TEC Show’.
