Softeners in Pigment Printing

Abstract

The influence of softeners in pigment printing on print quality has been investigated. Two softeners have been selected - one based on esters of fatty acids, and the other, based on silicone microemulsion. The influence of the quantity of softener applied on water absorption, on the stability of textile printing on the organic solvent C2Cl4 has been tested. More stable films, with improved elasticity, have been obtained with the softener based on silicone microemulsion. The softener based on esters of fatty acids increases water absorption, but with a less stable polymere film. This is reflected in fabric hand, and the choice of softeners will primarily depend upon the intended end-use of the printed textile product.