Introduction

In textile printing, achieving vibrant colors can often compromise fabric softness, especially in dark-shade reactive printed cotton fabrics. At Starco Arochem Pvt. Ltd., we provide a technical process that enhances softness while maintaining shade depth and fastness, optimized for export-quality fabrics.

Challenge: Harsh Fabric Feel After Printing

High-urea print pastes are commonly used to achieve strong shade depth, but excess urea and residual thickener can make the fabric stiff after washing.

Typical Customer Recipe:

• 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 compromises fabric softness.

Starco Solution: Balanced Chemistry for Softness and Fastness

1. Optimized Print Paste

• Reduce urea to 150–175 g/kg

• Optimize auxiliaries to improve fabric handle and wash-off

2. Enzymatic Degumming (Optional Pre-Wash)
Using Starcozyme DP, a mild enzyme blend:

• Dosage: 0.5–1.0 g/L

• Temperature: 50–55°C

• Time: 15–20 minutes

This breaks down gum residues from alginate and thickeners, enhancing softness without affecting color tone.

3. Advanced Soaping Process
Using Starco Soap LF or Starco Soaping Agent 909:

• Dosage: 1.0–1.5 g/L

• Temperature: 90–95°C

• Time: 10 minutes

Removes residual dyes and urea efficiently, giving a softer hand, better fastness, and fewer rewashes.

Modified Process Flow

Results You Can Feel

• Noticeably softer hand feel

• Cleaner surface, neutral pH (6.0–7.5)

• Improved washing fastness (ISO 105-C06 rating 4+)

• No dye bleeding in final rinse

Before & After Comparison

Technical Support

For trials, samples, or expert guidance:

• Email: info@starcoindia.com

• Phone: +91 98980 74702

• Website: www.starcoindia.com