Textile Auxiliary Agents refers to the necessary chemicals in the process of textile production and processing. It endows textiles with various special functions and styles, such as softness, waterproofing, flame retardancy, etc., and can also improve the dyeing and finishing process to save energy and reduce processing costs. It plays a vital role in improving the product quality, added value and the overall level of the textile industry. About 80% of Textile Auxiliary Agents products are made from surfactants and about 20% are functional auxiliaries.
Textile auxiliary agents are chemicals used in the textile industry to enhance the manufacturing process, improve the quality of textile products, and achieve specific desired properties. These agents can be categorized into several main groups based on their functions and applications:
Pre-Treatment Agents:
Desizing Agents: Used to remove sizing agents and starch from the fabric before dyeing or finishing.
Scouring Agents: Aid in the removal of natural impurities, oils, and waxes from fibers and fabrics.
Bleaching Agents: Used to whiten and brighten fabrics by removing natural color and impurities.
Mercerizing Agents: Used in the mercerization process to improve the luster, strength, and dye affinity of cotton fibers.
Dyeing Agents:
Dye Leveling Agents: Help ensure uniform dye penetration and color distribution on the fabric.
Fixing Agents: Assist in fixing dyes to the fabric to make them resistant to washing and fading.
Dispersing Agents: Improve the dispersion of dyes in the dye bath, ensuring even coloring.
Thickening Agents: Increase the viscosity of dye solutions, aiding in dye penetration and preventing uneven dyeing.
Finishing Agents:
Softeners: Enhance the softness and feel of textiles.
Anti-Creasing Agents: Reduce wrinkles and creases in textiles, making them easier to handle and wear.
Flame Retardants: Add fire resistance to textiles for safety purposes.
Water Repellents: Make textiles resistant to water penetration.
Antimicrobial Agents: Inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi on textiles, often used in medical textiles and sportswear.
UV Absorbers: Protect textiles from UV radiation, preventing color fading and damage.
Anti-Static Agents: Reduce static electricity buildup on textiles.
Printing Agents:
Pigment Dispersants: Help disperse pigments in printing pastes for even coloration.
Thickeners: Increase the viscosity of printing pastes for better print quality.
Binder Resins: Bind pigments to the fabric during the printing process.
Auxiliaries for Specialty Textiles:
Waterproofing Agents: Make textiles impermeable to water, often used in rainwear and outdoor gear.
Phase Change Materials: Regulate temperature in textiles, providing cooling or warming effects.
Aroma and Fragrance Finishings: Add pleasant scents to textiles, used in products like scented linens.
Environmental and Sustainable Agents:
Biodegradable Agents: Enhance the biodegradability of textiles.
Low-Impact Dyes: Dyes designed to have minimal environmental impact.
Eco-Friendly Softeners: Sustainable softening agents that reduce environmental harm.
Recycled and Eco-Friendly Textile Chemicals: Chemicals designed with reduced environmental impact in mind.
After more than half a century of evolution, the global surfactant industry has reached a mature stage. Simultaneously, the textile industry has progressively shifted to Asia, resulting in a significant surge in the demand for textile auxiliaries in the region.
However, today's textile industry, particularly the dyeing and finishing sector, has been identified as a significant contributor to environmental pollution. Textile auxiliary agents play a central role in this process, causing adverse effects on the environment and ecological balance during both production and application. This impact cannot be underestimated.
Consequently, the development of environmentally friendly textile auxiliaries that align with ecological considerations has assumed paramount importance. It is the linchpin for fostering the sustainable growth of the industry.
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