| Abstract: | Graft polymerization of 2-methyl-5-vinylpyridine (MVP) onto polyester/wool blended fabric was carried out using benzoyl peroxide as initiator. The graft polymerization reaction was conducted under a variety of conditions. The graft yield increased by increasing benzoyl peroxide concentration from 0.559 mmole/l. to 1.657 mmole/l. Further increase in benzoyl peroxide concentration (i.e., up to 2.795 mmole/l.) decreased grafting. Increasing the MVP concentration from 4% to 10% caused a significant enhancement in grafting. The same held true for raising the polymerization temperature within the range of 65°–85°C. The grafting reaction proceeded initially at a fast rate and decreased with time to a slower rate. The grafted samples showed improved dyeability toward acid dye, increased density, and decreased moisture regain as compared with the untreated blend. Furthermore, a tentative mechanism for initiation of grafting was suggested. |
