Mercerization is the process of treating cellulose fibers with Sodium Hydroxide to increase lustre and dye affinity. The term mercerization is used as a honor to its founder John Mercer. When treating cellulose fibers with caustic soda, fibers swell and cross section becomes round. This cylindrical shape reflects light regularly increasing the degree of gloss (lustre).

1. MERCERIZATION
J.W.A Madushika
University of Moratuwa

2. Topics
What is mercerization?
Changes of cotton fiber due to mercerization
Benefits of mercerization
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3. What is mercerization?
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Cotton
Concentration – 15-25% (w/v)
Temperature- 20-30 ℃
Time- 45 Seconds – 5 minutes

4. Changes of cotton fiber due to mercerization
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Unmercerized cotton Mercerized cotton

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6. Benefits of mercerization
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• Enhanced dye ability
• Enhanced color fastness
• Increased silk-like luster
• Increased tensile strength
• Enhanced comfort properties

7. References
[1] S. Brahma, R. Islam, R.B. Dina, Role of Mercerizing Condition on Physical and
Dyeing Properties of Cotton Knit Fabric Dyed with Reactive Dyes, Int. J. Curr. Eng.
Technol. 8 (2018) 1–2.
[2] T. Wagaw, R. Chavan, Optimization of Caustic Soda Concentration for
Causticization of Cotton, Open Access Sci. Reports. 1 (2012) 1–6.
[3] M.S. Alam, Analysis of Depth of Shade on Mercerized and Unmercerized
Fabric among Different Woven Fabric Structures, J. Mater. (2016) 1–6.
[4] H.L. Needles, Textile Fibers, Dyes, Finishes and Processes, 1986.
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8. THANK YOU….!! 8