Naked Science Forum
General Science => General Science => Topic started by: Karen W. on 10/02/2008 15:37:23
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What Is it that does this, and allows the wrinkle to stay and not relax when hung?
Why does hanging the fabric not pull the wrinkle out?
When steaming the fabric, what is the steam actually doing to remove the wrinkle?
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Karen I think that because the steam from an iron may make the material
relax or just slightly damp enough to remove the wrinkles.
It works like that for me.
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Yes thank you Rosalind, I think I was wondering more like was there any structural changes or more unseen changes taking place.. does it change the molecular structure at all whilst pulling out the wrinkle?
Does the Steam change the molecular structure of the fabric in order to remove the wrinkle?
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Wrinkles are caused by heat & water. Heat breaks the bonds holding polymers in place in the fibres of a fabric so they become less rigid. This means they can move a bit. As the fabric cools, new bonds form, and the fibres get locked into position. That is also how ironing gets wrinkles out.
Leaving your clothes in a heap to cool down, rather than hanging them up, will cause wrinkles for the same reason.
Jeesh, here's me telling 2 females about washing & ironing! [:o]
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Jeesh I know about the wet cold and heat etc.. LOL I did not know about "heat breaking down polymers in place in the fibers of a fabric so they become less rigid." or "fabric cools and new bonds form"
Thanks Doc!
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Jeesh, here's me telling 2 females about washing & ironing! [:o]
ok, just to make everyone feel better I'll outsource my ironing and washing to you all for practice.
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Jeesh, here's me telling 2 females about washing & ironing! [:o]
ok, just to make everyone feel better I'll outsource my ironing and washing to you all for practice.
Is that because irons are not allowed in Australia for health reasons? [:D]
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LOL LOL LOL Well irons are definitely allowed in my home.