Introductions
In textile printing, achieving vibrant colors often comes at the cost of fabric softness. This is especially true in dark-shade reactive printed cotton fabrics, where harshness after processing is a common concern. At Starco Arochem Pvt. Ltd., we’ve developed a technical process that reduces harshness while maintaining shade depth and fastness, specially optimized for the Egyptian market.
🌸 The Challenge: Harsh Fabric Feel After Printing
Many textile printers use high-urea print paste formulations to achieve strong shade depth. However, excess urea and residual thickener can leave the fabric stiff and unpleasant to touch after washing.
A typical customer recipe might include:
Sodium Alginate (high viscosity): 12.5 g/kg
Synthetic Thickener: 27.5 g/kg
Urea: 200 g/kg
Ohyoung Black DN: 80 g/kg
While this gives excellent color depth, it often compromises softness.
🧪 The Starco Solution: Balanced Chemistry for Softness and Fastness
1️⃣ Optimized Print Paste
By reducing urea levels (to 150–175 g/kg) and optimizing auxiliaries, we help achieve smoother fabric handle and easier wash-off.
2️⃣ Enzymatic Degumming (Optional Pre-Wash)
Using Starcozyme DP, a blend of mild enzymes:
Dosage: 0.5–1.0 g/L
Temperature: 50–55°C
Time: 15–20 minutes
👉 This breaks down gum residues (alginate + thickener), enhancing softness without affecting color tone.
3️⃣ Advanced Soaping Process
Instead of plain hot water washing, adding Starco Soap LF or Starco Soaping Agent 909 removes unfixed dye and urea residue effectively.
Dosage: 1.0–1.5 g/L
Temperature: 90–95°C
Time: 10 minutes
Result: Softer touch, better fastness, and fewer rewashes.
🧵 Results You Can Feel
After optimization, our clients report:
✅ Noticeably softer hand feel
✅ Cleaner surface with neutral pH (6.0–7.5)
✅ Improved washing fastness (ISO 105-C06 rating 4+)
✅ No dye bleeding in final rinse
🌟 Before & After Fabric Images
Before Processing:
Fabric appears dull, slightly rough, and rigid to touch. Residual thickeners and unfixed dyes are visible as uneven surface shine. After Processing (Using Starco Arochem Solutions):
Fabric looks smoother, with deeper shade clarity and a soft, supple drape. The finish feels cleaner and more luxurious — ideal for export-quality garments.
✉ Technical Support
For samples, trials, or technical support:
📧 info@starcoindia.com
📞 +91 98980 74702
🌐 www.starcoindia.com
