mercerize
Strengthen cotton fibers
Mercerize is to treat cotton thread or fabric with a chemical solution, typically sodium hydroxide, to strengthen the fibers and give them a lustrous, silky appearance.
The process also improves dye absorption.
Most commonly encountered as an adjective: mercerized cotton, mercerized thread.
Named after John Mercer, who developed the technique in the 1840s.
Corrosive alkaline compound
- caustic sodaSodium hydroxide
- tensioningIncreasing tightness by pulling
- wet processingChemical treatment using liquids
- chemical processingAltering substances through reactions
Soft surface luster
- lustrousSoftly bright, reflective
- glossySmooth and shiny
- silkySmooth and lustrous
- gleamingReflecting light brightly
polished · satiny · brightness · radiance · shimmering · reflective · sleek · pearlescent
Plant fiber for textiles
- yarnTwisted strand for crafts
- threadFiber for stitching
- fabricWoven or knit material
- fiberPlant-based digestive aid
loom · sewing thread · embroidery floss · broadcloth · poplin · shirting · bed linens · pearl cotton
Resistance to wear
- tensile strengthResistance to pulling force
- longevityDuration of existence
- toughnessResilient durability under strain
- robustnessResistance to failure
Taking in liquid
- colorfastnessResistance to fading
- moisture retentionHolding water within something
- color depthBits encoding pixel hues
- saturationState of complete permeation
sodium hydroxide
Corrosive alkaline compound
- caustic sodaSodium hydroxide
- tensioningIncreasing tightness by pulling
- wet processingChemical treatment using liquids
sheen
Soft surface luster
gleaming · polished · satiny · brightness · radiance · shimmering · reflective · sleek · pearlescent · brilliance
cotton
Plant fiber for textiles
fiber · loom · sewing thread · embroidery floss · broadcloth · poplin · shirting · bed linens · pearl cotton · woven goods
durability
Resistance to wear
- tensile strengthResistance to pulling force
- longevityDuration of existence
- toughnessResilient durability under strain
robustness · tear resistance · structural integrity · resilience
water absorption
Taking in liquid
- colorfastnessResistance to fading
- moisture retentionHolding water within something
- color depthBits encoding pixel hues