Poly (vinylcaprolactam)-based Microgels to Improve Gloss Properties of Different Natural Fibres

Three different thermo-sensitive microgels obtained by the copolymerisation of vinylcaprolactam) (VCL) and various monomers (vinylimidazole(VIm), acetoacetoxyethyl methacrylate (AAEM) and itaconic acid(IA)) are used to coat different fibre surfaces. Two different pHs and two different temperatures, 25°C and 50°C respectively are chosen for the deposition of the microgels. The scanning electron microscopy of the treated fibre shows good distribution of the particles onto the fibres especially at increasing temperatures. The gloss index for the treated fibres has been measured, and showed that it may be controlled for all of the fibres with the treatment parameters (pH and temperature) and the microgel structure.