Textiles to stay whiter through Hohenstein research
15/01/2013
Project manager Eva Gierling explained: "Modern washing processes with a low water usage present specific challenges to the chemical/physical effect of detergents. Any dirt removed must be held as a stable solution in the water, so that it does not soak back into the fibre.”
To provide effective protection against redisposition, or stop the removed dirt pigments soaking back into the textile, the researchers at the German institute want to identify suitable detergent additives and develop procedural recommendations.
These are focused on the residues of cosmetic products and personal hygiene products (silicone and polyquaternium) which cause a disproportionate, non-reversible greying of white textiles made of mixed cotton-polyester fabrics. This leads to a considerable reduction in the lifespan of workwear, towels, bedding and table cloths.
The dirt removal of dust, make-up and curry paste is collated and assessed and forms the basis upon which the effectiveness of detergents can be investigated.
Hohenstein says textile producers, as well as commercial laundries and manufacturers of detergents and industrial washing machines, will be able to make use of this information in the development of sustainable systems.
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