Research on improving the rubbing fastness of polyester fabrics based on the film-forming properties of additives

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to add the film-forming agent (H-303N) into the dyeing process to enhance the color fastness of disperse dyes without the step of reduction cleaning. Design/methodology/approach The effects of additive concentration, baking temperature and time on color fastness and dyeing performance were systematically studied. FT-IR, SEM and thermogravimetric analysis were used to analyze the additives’ mechanism and a comparative analysis was conducted with the fabrics dyed using traditional processes. Findings The results showed that under optimal conditions of 12.0% (o.w.f) H-303N baked at 220°C for 3 min without reduction washing, the dyed fabric exhibited significant performance improvements: rubbing fastness increased from grade 2–4–5 and washing fastness of wool improved from grade 2–3 to 3–4, comparable to traditional processes. SEM analysis confirmed that H-303N formed a smooth, continuous and dense film on the fiber surface, reducing roughness and enhancing fastness through its efficient film-forming mechanism. Additionally, thermal stability slightly improved with weight loss rate decreasing from 90% to 83% (max temperature maintained at 440°C) and wicking height increased from 11.8 cm to 12.2 cm. These results demonstrate that film-forming agents offer a promising simplified alternative to conventional dyeing methods while significantly enhancing multiple fabric properties. Originality/value This technology can eliminate the traditional reduction cleaning process, thereby shortening the production flow, reducing production water consumption and effectively decreasing the discharge of high chemical oxygen demand wastewater. This method achieves the dual benefits of clean production and resource conservation.