How to Chorinate Wool

The chlorination of wool allows for better penetration of dyes, especially reactive dyes, into the fiber.  A general procedure is as follows:

 

  1. Scour and rinse goods as necessary.
  2. In a cold bath with liquor ratio of 15:1, set the pH to 4.5 using acetic acid, and run for 10 minutes.
  3. Add 2% owg ACL® 60 Chlorinating Composition(EPA Registration No. 935-36) predissolved in cold water.
  4. Raise temperature to 100°F(43°C) at a rate of 1.5°F/minute.
  5. Run for 25 minutes or until potassium Iodide starch paper remains white after immersion in bath.
  6. Add 1.5% owg Sodium Bisulfite, raise temperature to 120°F(49°C), and run for 20 minutes.
  7. Rinse thoroughly.

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