Catalytic activation of peracetic acid using chitosan-metal complex for low-temperature bleaching of cotton fabric

Abstract

A novel approach for bleaching of cotton fabric has been used and the most appropriate conditions for bleaching established. The technique adopted is based on the utilization of tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED) along with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) where in-situ peracetic acid (PAA) formation takes place via reaction of TAED and H₂O₂. Decomposition of the so created PAA to enhance its bleaching effect has been induced by using chitosan-Mo complex or chitosan-Co complex as a catalyst. Regulation of the reaction of H₂O₂ with TAED has been achieved using sodium silicate whereas the regulation of the decomposition of PAA and, therefore, its bleaching action has been achieved using sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS). Replacement of H₂O₂ with other oxidizing agents, namely ammonium persulphate and potassium bromated, was not

successful. In contrast, the perborate did succeed but with lower efficiency when compared with H₂O₂.