| abstract |
A fibrous material consisting of cellulosic or other natural fiber, synthetic fibers, or blends of various fibers is treated with an aqueous reagent system having a pH above 3.6 that is comprised of one or more carboxyl-containing vinyl monomers, a free-radical initiator, and a suitable base to adjust the pH. Comonomers and water-soluble di- or polyfunctional vinyl monomers may be included. Polymerization is conducted at elevated temperature in an atmosphere in which air may be diluted by steam and/or steam-nitrogen. The polymer is durably fixed to the fibrous substrate and contributes various special performance properties thereto. |