Novel transfer printing paper for silk printing with reactive dye

To achieve the silk transfer printing with reactive dye, novel transfer printing paper was prepared by coating the special paste. The impacts of each ingredient in the paste on the printing property of transfer paper were investigated. Results showed that hot-melt adhesive agent (soluble polyester, ES-1) influenced the extent of dye transfer during the hot-press process significantly; thickener (sodium alginate, SA), fixing alkaline agent (NaHCO3), and humectants (urea, glycerin and dicyandiamide) had their own contributing effects to the extent of dye fixation during the steaming. Optimal printing property was achieved when using the paste containing ES-1 6%, SA 3%, NaHCO3 1%, glycerin 2.5%, urea 2.5% and dicyandiamide 2%. The paste displayed a shear thinning behaviour and low thixotropy. The transfer paper had a good storing stability and can absorb the dye ink evenly and rapidly. The printed silk possessed a good colour fastness but its handle decreased slightly.