Abstract
A homologous series of 2-hydroxy -3-alkoxypropane sulf onates (HAPS) was prepared by the addition of sulfite to alkyl glycidyl ethers (R : C4C9). The efficiency of HAPS as an additive for promoting mercerization was evaluated by a conventional method of measuring a rate of shrinkage of cotton thread in concentrated alkaline solution (2040%) at 25°C. HAPS having a proper hydrocarbon chain (R : i -C5n-C8), as well as some commercial wetting agents, Tergitol EH, Teepol X, Emal O, exhibited high ability of accelerating shrinkage of cotton fiber due to alkali.
