Improving the dyeability of syntetic fabrics with basic dyes using in situ plasma polymerisation of acrylic acid

The in situ polymerisation of acrylic acid using low temperature plasma treatment was carried out on polyester, polyamide and polypropylene fabrics with the aim of improving their dyeability with basic dyes. The overall colour strength obtained was significantly increased as a result of this treatment. However, while the wash fastness was acceptable on polyamide, it was unsatisfactory on polyester and polypropylene fabrics, probably due to lack of penetration of these fibres by the acrylic acid monomer. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed that grafting of polyacrylic acid had taken place only on the surface of the polyester and polypropylene fibres, but in the case of polyamide the interior of the fibre was also modified.