The effect of eco-friendly treatment on surface modifications and printing properties of modal and micromodal/cotton blended fabrics

Purpose Environment-friendly materials and treatments have gained significant attention. This study aims to compare the effects of plasma and bio-enzyme treatments on the physical, chemical and printing properties of Modal and Micromodal fabrics blended with Cotton. Design/methodology/approach Modal (M) and Micromodal (MR) wefts were used and blended with Cotton (C) warps to produce fabric samples for each (MC and MRC). Each sample was treated with oxygen plasma, nitrogen plasma or an enzyme (MC/O2, MC/N2, MC/Z, MRC/O2, MRC/N2 and MRC/Z). Samples were printed using a reactive dye. Fabric properties were tested and measured, using scanning electron microscope(SEM) with image processing, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy (FTIR), measured contact angles, colour strength (K/S) and fastness properties. Findings MC/O2 recorded the highest of both roughness variation (88%) and crystallinity degrees (Cx%) of 29.11%. Wettability of all samples increased. K/S of MRC/N2 and MRC/Z increased (20.63) and (18.56), respectively. Fastness properties were very good to excellent with nitrogen plasma. Practical implications Plasma and bio-enzymes were environmentally friendly, saved energy and water, were more effective with Microfibres, and enhanced the properties of fabrics and printing. Originality/value Printing MR fabric treated with plasma or enzyme, and assessing its properties relative to M. Surface roughness was measured using image processing.