IMPROVEMENT OF THE NATURAL FLAME-RESISTANCE OF WOOL PART II: MULTI-PURPOSE FINISHES

Abstract

Isopolytungstates and heteropolytungstates improve the flame-resistant effect of the fluorozirconate application on wool. Wool treated with isopolytungstates discolours on exposure to light, whereas with some heteropolytungstates no discoloration occurs. The zirconium–tungsten applications are suitable for wool treated by chemical shrink-resist treatments, which has a slightly decreased flame-resistance owing to partial degradation of the fibres. Fully washable and flame-resist wool can be achieved by the application of resins with a similar or higher LOI value than wool and by treating the fibre with zirconium and tungsten complexes. Wool-bleaching is compatible with a zirconium after-treatment. The zirconium and titanium complexes are compatible with mothproofing and water- and oil-repellent agents, and in some cases a one-bath application is possible to achieve various multi-purpose finishes.