Granular sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) finds various applications in the textile industry due to its unique properties and functionalities. Here are some key applications:

1. Sizing Agent: Granular CMC is commonly used as a sizing agent in textile sizing operations. Sizing is the process of applying a protective coating to yarns or fibers to improve their handling characteristics during weaving or knitting. Granular CMC forms a cohesive film on the surface of yarns, providing lubrication and preventing breakage or damage during the weaving process. It imparts strength, smoothness, and elasticity to the sized yarns, resulting in improved weaving efficiency and fabric quality.
2. Printing Paste Thickener: Granular CMC is utilized as a thickening agent in textile printing pastes. In textile printing, patterns or designs are applied to fabric using printing pastes containing pigments or dyes. Granular CMC thickens the printing paste, increasing its viscosity and improving its rheological properties. This enables precise control over the printing process, facilitating uniform coverage of the fabric surface and sharp definition of printed patterns.
3. Dyeing Assistant: Granular CMC serves as a dyeing assistant in textile dyeing processes. During dyeing, CMC helps disperse and suspend dyes evenly in the dye bath, preventing agglomeration and ensuring uniform color uptake by the textile fibers. It enhances the levelness, brightness, and color fastness of dyed fabrics, resulting in vibrant and durable coloration.
4. Stabilizer and Binder: Granular CMC acts as a stabilizer and binder in textile finishing formulations. In textile finishing, various chemicals are applied to fabric surfaces to impart specific properties such as softness, wrinkle resistance, or flame retardancy. Granular CMC stabilizes these formulations, preventing phase separation and ensuring uniform distribution of active ingredients on the fabric. It also acts as a binder, adhering finishing agents to the fabric surface, thereby enhancing their durability and effectiveness.
5. Soil Release Agent: Granular CMC is used as a soil release agent in textile detergents and fabric softeners. In laundry applications, CMC forms a protective film on the fabric surface, preventing soil particles from adhering to the fibers and facilitating their removal during washing. It enhances the cleaning efficiency of detergents and improves the appearance and longevity of laundered textiles.
6. Anti-Backstaining Agent: Granular CMC functions as an anti-backstaining agent in textile processing. Backstaining refers to the undesirable migration of dye particles from dyed areas to undyed areas during wet processing or finishing operations. Granular CMC inhibits backstaining by forming a barrier on the fabric surface, preventing dye transfer and maintaining the integrity of dyed patterns or designs.
7. Environmental Sustainability: Granular CMC offers environmental benefits in textile processing due to its biodegradability and eco-friendly nature. As a renewable and non-toxic polymer, CMC reduces the environmental impact of textile manufacturing processes, promoting sustainability and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Overall, granular sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) plays a vital role in various aspects of textile processing, including sizing, printing, dyeing, finishing, and laundering. Its unique properties make it a versatile and indispensable additive in the textile industry, contributing to the production of high-quality, durable, and sustainable textiles.