Abstract: A silicate-free multi-functional scouring agent named PC was used in pretreatment of cotton fabric, and the treatment effect was satisfactory. This product would not produce silicate scale. It could improve the hand feel of cotton fabric, and provide benefits of lower cost of water, electricity and steam. As PC contained no silicate, the amount of salt in the wastewater decreased, which would reduce difficulty of wastewater treatment.

Key words: cotton fabric; one-step pretreatment; scouring agent; silicate scale