Selection of Desizing Agent Based on Textile Processing Environment
Desizing is a critical pre-treatment process in textile manufacturing. The removal of size from cotton fabric is essential before dyeing. If size is not properly removed, it can interfere with dye penetration and result in uneven dyeing, poor shade development, and overall inferior fabric quality.
The correct selection of desizing agent depends largely on the processing environment and fabric type.
What is a Desizing Agent?
Purpose of Desizing
A desizing agent is used to remove size materials applied during the weaving process. These size materials, typically starch-based, provide strength to warp yarns during weaving but must be removed prior to further wet processing.
In cotton processing, desizing agents are generally enzyme-based formulations containing Alpha Amylase as the key active ingredient. Alpha Amylase breaks down starch molecules into soluble fragments that can be easily washed away.
Desizing for Different Fibre Types
Cotton and Cotton Blends
Cotton and its blends are commonly desized using enzyme-based products. The process ensures complete removal of starch without damaging the fibre structure.
Polyester and Its Blends
For polyester and polyester blends, desizing agents often consist of emulsifiers and solvents rather than enzymes, due to the different nature of size materials used.
Rayon and Regenerated Cellulose
Rayon is a regenerated cellulose fibre derived from wood pulp. It is valued for its soft hand feel and lightweight structure. However, rayon has lower wet strength compared to cotton.
While desizing rayon fabrics, special care must be taken:
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Controlled temperature conditions
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Mild mechanical action
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Suitable enzyme concentration
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Prevention of fibre damage
The desizing process must be designed to protect the delicate fibre structure while ensuring complete size removal.
Selection Based on Processing Environment
The most important factor in selecting a desizing agent is the temperature environment in which the process is carried out.
Cold Environment Desizing (50°C – 80°C)
When desizing is carried out at relatively lower temperatures, a cold water desizing agent should be selected. These enzyme formulations are optimized to perform effectively at moderate temperatures.
Cold desizing is common in traditional textile processing clusters where lower temperature systems are preferred.
Hot Environment Desizing (80°C – 110°C)
When desizing is performed at higher temperatures, a hot water desizing agent is recommended. These enzyme formulations are thermally stable and maintain activity at elevated temperatures.
Hot desizing is widely adopted in modern textile processing units across India.
Cold vs Hot Desizing – Comparison
| Parameter | Cold Desizing | Hot Desizing |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature Range | 50°C – 80°C | 80°C – 110°C |
| Enzyme Type | Cold-active enzyme | Heat-stable enzyme |
| Energy Requirement | Lower | Higher |
| Common Usage Areas | Traditional clusters | Modern processing units |
| Fibre Safety (Rayon) | Requires control | Requires thermal stability |
Major Cold Desizing Clusters in India
Cold desizing is widely practiced in regions such as:
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Pali
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Balotra
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Jodhpur
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Jetpur
In these areas, along with jiggers, traditional earthen compartments known as “Kundi” are also used for cold desizing processes.
Hot desizing, on the other hand, is the standard process adopted in most large-scale textile units across India.
Starco Desizing Agent Range
Starco Arochem Pvt. Ltd. is a quality-focused manufacturer and exporter of textile auxiliaries including desizing agents.
The company offers:
Starcozym HT Liq.
A hot water desizing agent designed for high temperature processing environments. It ensures effective starch breakdown and consistent performance.
Starcozym CT Liq.
A cold water desizing agent developed specifically for low to moderate temperature desizing operations.
Both products are well accepted in domestic as well as export markets and are designed to ensure:
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Efficient starch removal
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Fabric integrity protection
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Process consistency
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Improved dyeing performance
Before and After Desizing
| Fabric Condition | Before Desizing | After Desizing |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Feel | Stiff | Soft & absorbent |
| Dye Penetration | Uneven | Uniform |
| Wet Processing | Restricted | Improved |
| Final Shade Quality | Patchy risk | Level dyeing |
Conclusion
The selection of a desizing agent should be based primarily on the temperature environment of textile processing and the type of fibre being treated. Cotton and rayon require enzyme-based desizing systems, while polyester blends may require solvent-emulsifier systems.
For cold processing clusters, cold-active enzyme formulations are suitable. For high-temperature operations, thermally stable desizing agents provide reliable performance.
Correct selection ensures complete size removal, fibre safety, improved dye uptake, and consistent fabric quality.
