Multifunctional Polymeric UV Absorbers for Photostabilization of Wool

Abstract

Photoyellowing of wool can be reduced up to 50% when polymeric UV absorbers with (meth)acrylate backbone are applied. UV absorbers derived from hydroxyphen ylbenzotriazole are most effective. Degradation of photolabile amino acids like tryp tophan and formation of cysteic acid are reduced. The mechanical properties of wool measured by abrasion resistance and bundle tensile strength tests improve with poly meric multifunctional UV absorbers. Resistance to washing of the polymers on wool fibers improves as compared with a low molecular weight stabilizer. Despite additional hydrocarbon and fluorinated side groups, the water repellent effect of polymeric UV absorbers is weak.