Bleaching Kinetics
Continuous bleaching range controls regulate the chemical decomposition rate of aqueous perhydroxyl ions during linen fabric whitening. Chemical reactions responsible for hydrogen peroxide oxidation shifts modify non-cellulosic impurities and residual lignin structures within flax fibers under alkaline conditions. Chinese finishing plants monitor bath temperature and stabilizer concentrations to maintain uniform oxidation across woven linen goods.
The scope of this oxidation process is restricted to chemical modification during wet finishing and ends once neutral washing and acid souring neutralize active peroxide residues.
Cellulose Degradation
Excessive alkalinity combined with unbuffered bath temperatures triggers rapid catalytic breakdown of hydrogen peroxide into reactive hydroxyl radicals. Uncontrolled hydrogen peroxide oxidation shifts degrade polymer chains in flax cellulose, reducing the degree of polymerization from original fiber levels down to substandard thresholds. Finishing plants measure fabric bursting strength and copper ammonium fluidity to quantify fiber structural damage after bleaching runs.
Stabilizing agents such as sodium silicate or organic phosphonates regulate radical formation rate during high-temperature liquor exposure.
Whiteness Target
Spectrophotometric measurement of bleached linen fabric records reflectance values across visible light wavelengths. Controlled hydrogen peroxide oxidation shifts produce consistent ISO whiteness index values above 80 units without destroying fabric hand or tear resistance. Mill laboratories adjust hydrogen peroxide concentrations based on raw greige fabric absorbency values to prevent uneven bleaching spots.
