Textile Term: Stain Resistance
The ability of a fabric to ward off stains is known as stain resistance. This characteristic is achieved by applying special chemical treatments to the fabric that act as a protective barrier between the fibers and any liquids that might cause staining. A variety of fabrics, including natural and synthetic ones, can be treated with stain-resistant finishes.
Several types of finishes are available, including fluorocarbon and nanotechnology-based finishes. The former is used mostly on carpets and upholstery fabrics and involves coating the fibers with a layer of fluorocarbon resin. This creates a hydrophobic barrier that repels water and oil-based stains.
Nanotechnology-based finishes, on the other hand, work by using microscopic particles to create a barrier between the fabric fibers and the stain-causing substances. These finishes are becoming increasingly popular in the textile industry because they are more durable and eco-friendly than traditional stain-resistant finishes.
Stain-resistant finishes can be applied to fabrics during the manufacturing process, or they can be applied as a post-treatment after the fabric has been woven or knitted. Some common applications of stain-resistant fabrics include workwear, uniforms, tablecloths, and upholstery.
