Question

Which one of the following basic finishes for wool fabric helps to set luster and develop permanent sheen?

• A. Carbonizing
• B. Decating
• C. Fulling
• D. Crabbing

Hint:

Decating can be thought of as a permanent steam-pressing treatment that locks the physical structure of wool fibers to enhance both luster and stability.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Wool fabrics undergo several physical and chemical finishing treatments to improve their dimensional stability, surface texture, feel, and appearance.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us review the functions of the listed wool-finishing processes:
Carbonizing (A): A chemical treatment using dilute sulfuric acid to remove cellulosic impurities (such as burrs, straw, and grass) from raw wool.
Decating (or Decatizing) (B): A hydrothermal finishing process where wool fabric is tightly wound around a perforated cylinder under tension, and hot steam is forced through the layers.
This treatment permanently sets the wool fibers, stabilizes the fabric dimensions, prevents shrinkage, improves the hand, sets the luster, and develops a permanent, elegant sheen.
Fulling (C): A mechanical process that uses moisture, heat, and friction to shrink and compact wool fabric, increasing its thickness and density.
Crabbing (D): A preliminary setting process used to lock the warp and weft yarns in place before further wet treatments to prevent distortion.
Therefore, Decating is the finish designed to set luster and develop a permanent sheen.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The finishing process that helps to set luster and develop a permanent sheen in wool fabric is Decating.