Optimization of Fluorochemical Finish Concentration for Liquid Repellency Treatment of 100% Cotton Fabric and Resulting Physical Properties

This study is focused on optimizing fluorochemical urethane finish concentration for treatment of 100% cotton fabric. Fluorochemical urethane (FU) is a newer innovation with a shorter fluorocarbon chain (C4), is free from perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonate (PFOS), and thus is a safer alternative to older C6- or C8-based fluorocarbons. The finish concentration was optimized based on the liquid repellency (water and oil repellency) and its influence on selected physical properties of the fabric. In addition, the laundering durability of the repellency effect was studied as well. The results indicate that a 80 g/L concentration of fluorochemical urethane was the optimal finish concentration for 100% cotton woven fabric based on desired liquid repellency and physical properties of the fabric.