Effect of Co₂ Laser Radiation on Surface and Dyeing Properties of Synthetic Fibres Available to Purchase

Chemical treatment methods are most often used nowadays for polymer surface modification; however, new technologies are now considered, especially in physical treatment methods, as laser technologies. Infra-red lasers, like CO₂, appear to be advantageous due to their large beam size, high efficiency, easy operation, use of non-toxic gases and low cost. However, they have been less used than others for surface treatment of polymers, possibly due to the thermal damage effects caused by infra-red radiation. This shortcoming can be overcome by the use of pulsed lasers. CO₂ pulsed laser can be considered as a non-contact and environmental-friendly treatment technique for the modification of the surface of polymers. Surface morphological modifications can be produced, resulting in changes in the physical and chemical properties of the materials, such as water absorption and dyeing. In this work, polyester and polyamide fabrics were treated with a CO₂ pulsed laser and then dyed with different commercial dyes. Dyeing properties were investigated and changes in the dye ability of laser treated fibres are expected. Laser treatment created certain roughness on the fibre surface, resulting in an increase of the overall surface area and a subsequent enhancement of dye adsorption.