The proposed research will determine the feasibility of combining an organic phosphorus compound such as is currently in use as a flame retardant with a newly developed durable press compound that has several advantages over the conventional dimethyloldihydroxyethylene urea (DMDHEU) resin commonly used in durable press compounds. The new compound has not, to our knowledge, been evaluated in conjunction with FRT treatments, and is theoretically chemically compatible. The research will also investigate the application of this compound using a pad with controlled vacuum extraction as an additional means of maintaining the desirable qualities of the fabric. The primary advantages expected are an improved fabrich hand, reduced loss of tensile strength, and total absence of free formaldehyde. The research will verify compatibility, strength, color fastness with commonly used dyes, and the efficiency of vary catalysts. Material treated with DMDHEU and an organic phosphorus FRT compound will be used as a control sample during the experiments.
