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What is "pH" - Definition & Explanation
Last Updated on: 27-Jun-2024 (1 month ago)
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pH
In textiles, pH is an important parameter that is used to determine the acidity or alkalinity of a substance. It is a measure of the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution, which can range from highly acidic to highly alkaline. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, with a pH of 7 being neutral, values below 7 being acidic and values above 7 being alkaline.

The pH value of textiles is important because it can affect the properties of the fabric, including its strength, color, and appearance. For example, high pH values can cause color fading and weakening of fibers, while low pH values can cause yellowing and damage to the fabric.

The pH of textiles can be influenced by several factors, including the composition of the fabric, the chemicals used in textile processing, and the conditions in which the fabric is stored or used. For example, natural fibers such as cotton and wool have a slightly acidic pH, while synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon have a more alkaline pH.

Textile processing can also affect the pH of the fabric. For example, the use of alkaline chemicals in textile bleaching and dyeing can increase the pH of the fabric, while the use of acidic chemicals in finishing processes can decrease the pH.

To measure the pH of textiles, a pH meter is used. The pH meter consists of a pH electrode, a reference electrode, and a meter that displays the pH value. The pH electrode is made of glass and contains a solution of potassium chloride, which reacts with hydrogen ions in the sample being tested. The reference electrode provides a stable reference point for the pH electrode.

To measure the pH of a textile sample, the sample is first prepared by washing and drying it to remove any surface contaminants. A small piece of the fabric is then cut and placed in a beaker of distilled water, which is agitated to ensure that the fabric is fully immersed. The pH electrode is then inserted into the water, and the pH value is recorded.

The pH value of textiles can also be controlled through the use of various chemicals. For example, pH adjusters can be added to textile processing solutions to maintain the desired pH range. Acidic pH adjusters such as acetic acid and citric acid can be used to lower the pH, while alkaline pH adjusters such as sodium carbonate and sodium hydroxide can be used to raise the pH.

In conclusion, pH is an important parameter in textiles that can affect the properties of the fabric. The pH of textiles can be influenced by various factors, including the composition of the fabric, the chemicals used in textile processing, and the conditions in which the fabric is stored or used. Measuring and controlling the pH of textiles is important for ensuring the quality and longevity of textile products.
pH
pH is the measure of acidity or alkalinity of a substance. On a scale of 0-14, 7 is neutral (neither acid nor alkaline). Lower than 7 is acidic (gives up a hydrogen atom when added to water) and greater than 7 is alkaline (a base), giving up OH (hydroxide) when added to water. The further away the number is from 7, the "stronger" it is. Each fabric has a preferred pH. PH is also used in water-based cleaning as some soils yield to different pH solutions.

Some more terms:

Woof

Comes from the Anglo-Saxon 'owef'. It is another name for the warp or warp yarn. Sometimes in advertising textiles, the word has been used to imply filling yarn, and made to interchange with the...

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Interlock

A special type of eight-lock knit cloth. The stitch variation of the rib stitch, which generally resembles a double 1 x 1 ribbed fabric that is interknitted with crossed sinker wales. Plain (double...

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Mercerisation

a) The treatment of cellulosic textiles, in yarn or fabric form, with a concentrated solution of a caustic alkali whereby the fibres are swollen, their strength and dye affinity is increased and...

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Pigmented, or Top-Coated Leather

This is the most widely used finishing technique. The finish consists of an opaque base-coat of pigmented resins, followed by a protective top coat. The natural colour of the leather is completely...

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Seam Mark

A particular form of pressure mark (q.v.) in a fabric, and that is produced by the relief print-off of defects such as slubs or seams joining lengths of fabric, under excessive rolling tension or by...

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Sock

A sock is a baglike covering for the foot and/or lower leg, which is designed to: ease chafing between the foot and footwear keep feet warm absorb sweat from the feet. Sock lengths vary, from...

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Boucle

Boucle is a type of yarn or fabric characterized by its looped or curly texture. The word boucle comes from the French word "boucler," which means "to curl." Boucle can be made from a variety of...

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Dimity

Cotton fabric made of combed yarn that comes in a plain weave with a crosswise or lengthwise spaced rib or crossbar effect. A thin sheer with corded spaced stripes that could be single, double or...

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Did you know this fact? Fashion designer Hubert de Givenchy created iconic looks for Audrey Hepburn in many of her films.
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