How To Improve Wet And Dry Rubbing Fastness? (II)

In the previous article, we discussed the influence of fiber, dye selection, and dyeing process control on rubbing fastness. In this second part, we focus on finishing and physical methods—the “remediation” and “enhancement” steps that can significantly boost both wet and dry rubbing fastness.

3. Finishing – The Key Improvement Method

Finishing treatments are typically applied through a padding → drying process and play a decisive role in upgrading friction fastness.

Use of Rubbing Fastness Improvers

These additives are often high molecular weight polymers (e.g., waterborne polyurethane, silicone-modified resin). Their action mechanism includes:

• Smoothing Effect: Reduces surface friction coefficient, lowering mechanical stress on the dye layer.

• Coating Effect: Forms a soft, transparent protective film that encapsulates dye particles and fiber fuzz, preventing dye loss.

• Water Repellent Effect: Some improvers reduce fabric hydrophilicity, minimizing dye dissolution during wet rubbing.

Choosing the Right Softener

Softener selection is critical:

• Avoid: Sticky, oily softeners, as they may aggravate staining during rubbing.

• Recommended: Refreshing soft oil or silicone softeners, which deliver smoothness and flexibility, indirectly enhancing dry rubbing fastness.

4. Physical Methods

Apart from chemical finishing, mechanical and enzymatic treatments can also enhance rubbing fastness:

• Shearing or Cropping: Removing excess surface hairiness reduces contact points during rubbing, improving dry rubbing fastness.

• Biopolishing: Using cellulase on cotton fabrics eliminates microfibrils, giving the fabric a smooth, clean surface. This not only improves wet and dry rubbing fastness but also enhances fabric brightness and hand feel.

  
  

Key Takeaway:
Finishing and physical methods provide an effective second line of defense when dyeing alone cannot fully meet rubbing fastness standards. By combining functional additives with mechanical or enzymatic surface treatments, textile manufacturers can achieve higher durability and customer satisfaction.