mercerization
/ˌməːs(ə)rʌɪˈzeɪʃn/(also mercerisation) Textiles
noun
The process of treating cotton yarn or fabric (often under tension) with a concentrated solution of sodium hydroxide or other base, in order to impart strength and lustre and to increase affinity for dyes.
- After immersion, the yarn is washed with water and acid..
Origin
Mid 19th century; earliest use found in The Athenaeum. From the name of John Mercer, English calico-printer and chemist, who discovered the process in 1844 + -ization.