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Understand how the physical characteristics of fabrics can be modified by using mechanical finishes, eg trapped air acts as an insulator, air supports combustion, smooth fabric reflect light better than those with texture. 22 Visit aqa.org.uk/7562 for the most up-to-date specification, resources, support and administration Chemical finishes A range of chemical finishes, including: • mercerisation • flame retardancy, eg Proban ® and Pytovatex® used on cotton fabrics • water resistance • non-iron/crease resistance, eg Teflon • shrink resistance and anti felting • moth proofing • anti-pilling • hygienic (sanitised).

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The use of finishes

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The use of finishes

Aqa A Level Design And Technology Fashion And TextilesTechnical principles

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Quick explanation

Understand how the physical characteristics of fabrics can be modified by using mechanical finishes, eg trapped air acts as an insulator, air supports combustion, smooth fabric reflect light better than those with texture. 22 Visit aqa.org.uk/7562 for the most up-to-date specification, resources, support and administration Chemical finishes A range of chemical finishes, including: • mercerisation • flame retardancy, eg Proban ® and Pytovatex® used on cotton fabrics • water resistance • non-iron/crease resistance, eg Teflon • shrink resistance and anti felting • moth proofing • anti-pilling • hygienic (sanitised)

  • This point belongs to The use of finishes, especially The use of finishes.
  • You need to be able to understand how the physical characteristics of fabrics can be modified by using mechanical finishes, eg trapped air acts as an insulator, air supports combustion, smooth fabric reflect light better than those with texture. 22 Visit aqa.org.uk/7562 for the most up-to-date specification, resources, support and administration Chemical finishes A range of chemical finishes, including: • mercerisation • flame retardancy, eg Proban ® and Pytovatex® used on cotton fabrics • water resistance • non-iron/crease resistance, eg Teflon • shrink resistance and anti felting • moth proofing • anti-pilling • hygienic (sanitised).
  • Use the linked flashcards and practice questions to check recall, then practise applying the idea in an exam-style answer.

Why it matters

This objective helps connect The use of finishes to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for The use of finishes.

Quick student answer

Which of the following chemical finishes is used to make cotton fabrics flame retardant?

Direct answer

Proban® is a chemical finish specifically designed to impart flame retardancy to cotton fabrics.

Key terms

  • Mercerisation: A chemical process that enhances the properties of cotton by increasing its strength and luster.
  • Flame Retardancy: The ability of a fabric to resist ignition and slow down the spread of fire.

Common trap

Confusing chemical finishes with mechanical finishes: Remember that chemical finishes alter the fiber structure at a molecular level, while mechanical finishes change the surface texture.

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