How to Bleach Nylon/Acetate Blends

Bleaching of Nylon/Acetate is typically not necessary as both fibers usually come from the factory in a clean white state.  If bleaching is necessary, however, the process is similar to that of straight Nylon but with the temperature not exceeding 170°F.  A good scouring should be performed prior to bleaching to remove any oils, waxes, lubricants, or soil left over during processing. The most effective bleaching process of nylon is the sodium chlorite* process:

 

  1. After scouring goods, rinse well.
  2. In a bath containing 0.1-0.2 oz/gal(0.75-1.5g/L) of Sodium Chlorite and 0.133-0.4 oz/gal(1-3 g/L) acetic acid, run goods at 170°F(76°C) for 30 minutes. Drop bath and overflow rinse until clear.
  3. Set an antichlor bath at 100°F(40°C) containing 0.2oz/gal(1.5g/L) Sodium Bisulfite and 0.067 oz/gal(0.5g/L) Orconol CHSA Conc™.
  4. Bring bath to 170°F(76°C) and run for 15 minutes.
  5. Overflow rinse at 140°F(60°C) for 10 minutes.

 

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