Effects of Solubility Parameters on Disperse Dyeing of Polyester.

The solubility parameter concept offers a method for quantifying the miscibility or compatibility of two or more liquids. The concept can also be applied to polymer systems, and in the textile area the disperse dyeing of polyester may be treated from the viewpoint of a solution of dye in the fiber. Some of the perhaps puzzling observations of the effects of dyeing auxiliaries on the exhaust dyeing process may be at least qualitatively understood by reference to the solubility parameters of fiber, dye and auxiliary. Although solubility parameter alone is not a sufficient basis for the explanation of all polyester dyeing phenomena, it can serve as a medium for the removal of some aspects of dyeing from the realm of necromancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]