Abstract

Textile finishing includes various efforts to improve the properties of textile fabrics, whether for apparel, home, or other end uses. These processes are directed toward modifying either the fiber characteristics or the gross textile end properties. The advent of synthetic fibers possessing improved resiliency and dimensional stability has placed natural fibers, particularly cotton, at an ostensible disadvantage, putting pressure on cotton interests to focus on the perceived deficiencies of natural fibers. This article discusses fabric preparation, different finishing methods and their applications, the mechanism and use of cross-linking agents, as well as such topics as dyeing modifications and finishing of synthetic fibers.