Which finishing process will best improve the luster, strength, and absorbency of cotton fabrics?

Which finishing process will best improve the luster, strength, and absorbency of cotton fabrics?

• A. Mercerization
• B. Bleaching
• C. Dry cleaning
• D. Water-repellent finish

Answer: (C)

Mercerization is the finishing step that best boosts luster, strength, and absorbency in cotton. Treating cotton with a mild alkali, typically sodium hydroxide, causes the fibers to swell and reconfigure their structure. This change makes the fiber surface smoother and more receptive to light, giving the fabric a natural sheen. It also strengthens the fiber, especially when wet, and increases absorbency by increasing surface area and improving how the fiber wets and wicks moisture. Bleaching focuses on whitening and removing impurities, which can alter strength if overdone and doesn’t enhance luster or absorbency. Dry cleaning is a cleaning process rather than a finish that improves these properties. A water-repellent finish adds hydrophobic chemicals, which actually reduces absorbency.

Mercerization is the finishing step that best boosts luster, strength, and absorbency in cotton. Treating cotton with a mild alkali, typically sodium hydroxide, causes the fibers to swell and reconfigure their structure. This change makes the fiber surface smoother and more receptive to light, giving the fabric a natural sheen. It also strengthens the fiber, especially when wet, and increases absorbency by increasing surface area and improving how the fiber wets and wicks moisture.

Bleaching focuses on whitening and removing impurities, which can alter strength if overdone and doesn’t enhance luster or absorbency. Dry cleaning is a cleaning process rather than a finish that improves these properties. A water-repellent finish adds hydrophobic chemicals, which actually reduces absorbency.