Aplication of microwaves in textile finishing processes

Planar microwave (MW) device for thermal treatment of textile material was constructed and tested at University of Zagreb, Faculty of Textile Technology. The treated material, which is in a wide state, is horizontally passed through the slots of the applicator. The feasibility of use of developed device for textile treatment was tested on cellulose materials impregnated with different finishes: durable press, water and oil-repellent and flame retardant. Obtained effects of microwave treatments were compared with conventional drying and curing method and significant improvements of physical and mechanical properties were found. This might pave the way toward use of proposed technology in textile finishing field.