An Integrated Approach for the Production of Value-Added and Innovative Jute-Containing Fabrics

Abstract

New jute containing fabrics have been produced. The effects of jute grade, weft side component, yarn count number, pretreatment sequence dyeability, with reactive, direct, or basic dye, printability with pigment, as well as soft and bio-finish of the plain woven substrates were examined and optimal conditions for attaining better performance properties were selected. The changes in physicomechanical properties of the pretreated substrates are governed by weft yarn type and count number, blend components, and pretreatment sequence. The extent of dyeing and pigment printing of the used substrates as a function of the weft component follows in descending order: Reactive dyeing: Jute/Flax > Jute/Cotton > Jute/Jute Direct dyeing: Jute/Jute > Jute/Cotton > Jute/Flax Basic dyeing: Jute/Jute > Jute/Cotton > Jute/Flax > Jute/Polyester Pigment printing: Jute/Jute > Jute/Flax > Jute/Cotton > Jute/Polyester, regardless of the used pretreatment sequence. The extent of improvement in fabric resiliency, drapeability, and softness properties of the pretreated jute fabrics made from finer weft yarns is better than those made from coarser ones, irrespective of the used finishing regime, and follows the decreasing order: Bio-finish/Soft-finish > Soft-finish > Bio-finish > None. The performance properties of the produced jute-containing fabrics would ensure the diverse use and their potential applications in apparel and home furnishings.