Investigation of structural mechanics of chemical free pre-treated jute fabric

This study explores the development of a chemical-free pretreatment on jute fabrics, as a benign alternative to traditional chemical pretreatment processes. Jute fabric samples were pretreated using non-chemical at 130°C for 1 hour in lab deep machine. The absorbency, color strength (K/S values), whiteness, CIELAB values, FTIR, SEM analysis, tensile strength and fastness of the treated fabrics to rubbing, washing and perspiration were evaluated. The chemical-free method (6.5 seconds vs. 4.1 seconds for water droplet absorption) demonstrates comparable absorbency to conventionally pretreated samples, boosted color strength (K/S 18.2 vs. K/S 15.8 for reactive dyes), and slightly reduced whiteness (149 vs. 159.1). Analysis of FTIR showed that hydrogen bonding was reduced, with minimal cellulose degradation after modeling, and surface roughness increased according to SEM analysis, enabling better diffusion of the absorbed dye. The chemical-free treated samples exhibited better dry rubbing fastness (3–4 vs. 3) and wash fastness ratings of 3–4 for color change and 3–5 for staining, which were comparable to those of conventionally dyed samples. The chemical-free samples had good elongation at peak (8.0% vs. 7.7%) and a slightly higher tensile strength (149.7 N vs. 147.5 N). These findings suggest that pretreatment without chemicals is a sustainable and eco-friendly method of preparing jute fabric while preserving or enhancing key mechanical and coloring qualities. • A high-temp, chemical-free method cuts chemical use while maintaining fabric quality. • Chem-free jute shows better color intensity (K/S 18.2) than conventional (K/S 15.8). • Higher tensile strength (149.75 N) and elongation (8.0%) than conventional methods. • Superior dry rubbing fastness (3–4) with comparable wash fastness to conventional. • SEM and FTIR reveal better dye bonding with minimal fiber structural changes.