Structural and dyeing properties of aramid treated with 2‐phenoxyethanol

In this study, 2‐phenoxyethanol was used as a carrier to realise the bright‐colour dyeing of aramid fibre. Fourier transform infrared, X‐ray diffraction, and thermal analyses were used to characterise the modification of 2‐phenoxyethanol on the aramid fibre structure. The dyeing performance, including the K/S value and the dye uptake, was tested by varying the concentration of 2‐phenoxyethanol and related experimental parameters. Structural analysis suggests strengthened H‐bonds, lower crystallinity, and slightly lower thermal stability after 2‐phenoxyethanol treatment, which can be explained by the swelling effect of 2‐phenoxyethanol, enlarging the amorphous structure through the reassembly of hydroxyl bonding to the aramid fibre. The dyeing performance can be improved by increasing the dyeing time, the temperature, and the concentration of sodium nitrate under slightly acidic condition. Colour fastness tests showed that 2‐phenoxyethanol treatment does not affect the rubbing fastness but lowers the wash fastness slightly. Dyeing of aramid is crucial under special environmental conditions in which the products must withstand a harsh environment while retaining a bright colour.