Inventors:
Jeffery T. Cook - Cincinatti OH
Walter D. Daniels - Maineville OH
Pedro A. Rodriguez - Cincinnati OH
Peter A. Graef - Puyallup WA
Clifford R. Bolstad - Federal Way WA
William L. Duncan - Seattle WA
Assignee:
The Procter & Gamble Company - Cincinatti OH
International Classification:
D06M 13192, D21H 1120
Abstract:
Disclosed is a process for making reduced odor individualized, crosslinked fibers which includes the steps of providing cellulosic fibers, contacting the fibers with a solution containing a C. sub. 2 -C. sub. 9 polycarboxylic acid crosslinking agent, mechanically separating the fibers into substantially individual form, drying the fibers and reacting the crosslinking agent with the individualized fibers to form intrafiber crosslink bonds. The individualized cellulosic fibers are then contacted with a strong alkaline solution and strong oxidizing agent to reduce the odor and increase the brightness. Preferably, the crosslinking agent is citric acid, and preferably, between about 1. 0 weight % and about 12. 0 weight % of the crosslinking agent reacts to form the intrafiber crosslink bonds. Preferably, the alkaline solution is an aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide, and preferably, about 0.