Effects of polar organic solvents on the abrasion resistance of wool fabric

The Martindale flat abrasion resistance of worsted fabrics is improved by treatment with polar (swelling) solvents such as aqueous n-propanol and concentrated formic acid. The improvements are stable to mild finishing treatments and to conditions similar to those normally encountered during end-use, but are reduced by treatments in aqueous solutions above 80°C. The mechanism by which the abrasion resistance is improved has not been confirmed. Removal of lipid material from the cell membrane complex may be involved.