Concept:
Pigment printing is a unique coloration process where insoluble color particles are fixed onto the fiber surface using a polymeric binder. Unlike dyes, pigments do not chemically react with or diffuse into the fiber.
Step 1: Analyze Statements A and B.
Pigments are insoluble and lack chemical affinity for any fiber, including cotton. Therefore, a binder must be used to create a mechanical bond by forming a thin, polymeric film on the surface of the fabric, trapping the pigment particles.
Step 2: Evaluate Fixation Requirements (Statements C and D).
Dye-based printing often requires steaming for molecular diffusion. However, pigment printing relies on curing (dry heat treatment) to cross-link the binder. Steaming is not mandatory and is generally avoided in this process.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Statements A, B, and D are technically accurate for pigment printing, making option (3) the correct choice.