Study on the Ramie Fabric Treated with Copper Ammonia to Slenderize Fiber for Eliminating Prickle

Ramie fabrics are suitable for summer clothing due to their excellent moisture absorption and breathability. Still, their application in the garment industry is limited by the presence of stiff, coarse hairiness that tends to prickle when it comes into contact with the skin. Herein, a low concentration copper ammonia solution was used to slenderize the fiber of the ramie fabric for a short time at room temperature to eliminate prickle and improve the softness of the fabric. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermal gravity analysis (TG) were used to investigate the morphology and structure of treated ramie fabric. And its softness, smoothness, fiber diameter, breaking strength, air permeability, and moisture absorption were also studied. The results showed that the fibers were slenderized, the stiff, coarse hairiness was reduced, and the softness of the fabric was improved, while its other properties remained good after the ramie fabric was treated under appropriate conditions. The use of copper ammonia solution at room temperature to eliminate the prickle of ramie fabrics was simple and inexpensive, suitable for use in practical production.