Polyester short fiber treatment agent, first component for treating polyester short fiber, second component for treating polyester short fiber, third component for treating polyester short fiber, and polyester short fiber

Abstract

The objective of this invention is to provide a polyester staple fiber treatment agent, which improves the smoothness of fibers treated with the polyester staple fiber treatment agent. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent of this invention contains a polyether compound, and the non-volatile component of the aforementioned polyester staple fiber treatment agent contains 50% by mass or more of the aforementioned polyether compound. The aforementioned polyether compound is formed by the addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a 1- to 18-carbon alcohol, and has a mass average molecular weight of 14,000 to 32,000 or less.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to a treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, a first treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, a second treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, a third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, and polyester staple fibers. [Previous Technology]

[0002] Generally speaking, the synthetic fibers used for filling cotton in bedding such as quilts, pillows, and cushions, as well as clothing such as patchwork and down, and even plush toys, are polyester staple fibers. These polyester staple fibers are required to have various properties such as smoothness and softness. In order to improve these properties, sometimes a treatment agent is applied to the surface of the polyester staple fibers.

[0003] For example, treatment agents for synthetic fibers disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are currently known. Patent Document 1 discloses an oiling agent for polyester fiber filling cotton, which contains an alkali metal salt of an alkyl phosphate ester with an average carbon number in the range of 14 to 18, and a block copolymer formed of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide with an average molecular weight of 1000 to 4000. Patent Document 2 discloses a treatment agent for synthetic fibers, which contains a specific linear polyorganosiloxane, a specific glycol compound, and a specific disilylsilane compound.

[0004] Prior Art Documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 1-14347 Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2001-146685 [Summary of the Invention]

[0005] Problems to be Solved by the Invention However, it is currently desirable to further improve the smoothness of fibers treated with synthetic fiber treatment agents. Furthermore, synthetic fiber treatment agents with polysiloxane as the main component suffer from poor flame retardancy. Therefore, it is currently desirable to have a polyester staple fiber treatment agent that does not have polysiloxane as the main component and exhibits good smoothness.

[0006] Means for solving the problem The inventors conducted research in order to solve the above-mentioned problem and found that the treatment agent for polyester staple fibers containing a proportion of 50% by mass or more of a specific polyether compound (A) is particularly effective.

[0007] The various forms used to solve the above problems are recorded.

[0008] Form 1 is a treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, characterized in that it contains the following polyether compound (A), wherein the non-volatile components of the above-mentioned polyester staple fiber treatment agent contain 50% by mass or more of the above-mentioned polyether compound (A). The polyether compound (A) is formed by the addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a 1- to 18-carbon alcohol, and has a mass average molecular weight of 14,000 to 32,000.

[0009] Form 2 is a treatment agent for polyester staple fibers as described in Form 1, wherein the pH of a 1% by mass aqueous solution is 7.0 or higher and 10.0 or lower.

[0010] Form 3 is a treatment agent for polyester staple fibers as described in Form 1 or 2, wherein the mass average molecular weight of the polyether compound (A) is 17,000 or more and 32,000 or less.

[0011] Form 4 is a treatment agent for polyester staple fibers as described in any of Forms 1 to 3, wherein the polyether compound (A) is formed by adding ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a tri- or tetra-ol having 3 or more to 12 carbon atoms.

[0012] Form 5 is a treatment agent for polyester staple fibers as described in any of Forms 1 to 4, wherein it further contains the following organophosphate ester (B). The organophosphate ester (B) is at least one of aliphatic alcohols having 4 to 12 carbon atoms, or their salts.

[0013] Form 6 is a polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Form 5, wherein the non-volatile component of the polyester staple fiber treatment agent contains 55% to 95% by mass of the polyether compound (A) and 5% to 45% by mass of the organophosphate ester (B).

[0014] Form 7 is a treatment agent for polyester staple fibers as described in any of Forms 1 to 4, wherein it further contains an antioxidant (C).

[0015] Form 8 is a polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Form 7, wherein the non-volatile component of the polyester staple fiber treatment agent contains 94% to 99.9% by mass of the polyether compound (A) and 0.1% to 6% by mass of the antioxidant (C).

[0016] Form 9 is a treatment agent for polyester staple fibers as described in Form 5, wherein it further contains an antioxidant (C).

[0017] Form 10 is a polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Form 9, wherein the non-volatile component of the polyester staple fiber treatment agent contains 55% to 94% by mass of the polyether compound (A), 5% to 45% by mass of the organophosphate ester (B), and 0.1% to 5% by mass of the antioxidant (C).

[0018] Form 11 is a first treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, characterized in that it is used in combination with at least one of a second treatment agent and a third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, wherein the first treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains a polyether compound (A), the second treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains an organophosphate ester (B), and the third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains an antioxidant (C). The polyether compound (A) is formed by the addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a 1- to 18-carbon alcohol, and has a mass average molecular weight of 14,000 to 32,000. The organophosphate ester (B) is at least one of a phosphate ester of an aliphatic alcohol having 4 to 12 carbon atoms, and its salts.

[0019] Form 12 is a second treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, characterized in that it is used in combination with a first treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, and further selectively in combination with a third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers. The first treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains a polyether compound (A), the second treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains an organophosphate ester (B), and the third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains an antioxidant (C). The polyether compound (A) is formed by the addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a 1- to 18-carbon alcohol, and has a mass average molecular weight of 14,000 to 32,000. The organophosphate ester (B) is at least one selected from phosphate esters of aliphatic alcohols having 4 to 12 carbon atoms, and their salts.

[0020] Form 13 is a third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, characterized in that it is used in combination with a first treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, and further selectively in combination with a second treatment agent for polyester staple fibers. The first treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains a polyether compound (A), the second treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains an organophosphate ester (B), and the third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains an antioxidant (C). The polyether compound (A) is formed by the addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a 1- to 18-carbon alcohol, and has a mass average molecular weight of 14,000 to 32,000. The organophosphate ester (B) is at least one selected from phosphate esters of aliphatic alcohols having 4 to 12 carbon atoms, and their salts.

[0021] Form 14 is a polyester staple fiber, characterized in that: it is coated with a polyester staple fiber treatment agent described in any one of Forms 1 to 10.

[0022] Form 15 is a polyester staple fiber as described in Form 14, wherein the polyester staple fiber is a staple fiber used for manufacturing filling cotton.

[0023] Effects of the invention According to the present invention, the smoothness of fibers treated with a polyester staple fiber treatment agent can be improved.

Implementation Method

[0024] <First Embodiment> The following describes a first embodiment of the present invention, namely a treatment agent for polyester staple fibers (hereinafter referred to as the treatment agent). The treatment agent of this embodiment contains a polyether compound (A) described later. The treatment agent may also contain an organophosphate ester (B) and an antioxidant (C). The treatment agent differs from the fiber treatment agent disclosed, for example, in Chinese Patent Application Publication No. 102277732, in that it does not contain more than 50% by mass of fatty acid salts with 8 to 24 carbon atoms.

[0025] (Polyether compound (A)) The polyether compound (A) used in this embodiment is formed by adding ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a tetrahydric alcohol having 3 to 18 carbon atoms, and has a mass average molecular weight of 14,000 to 32,000.

[0026] The alcohol used as a raw material for the polyether compound (A) is an alcohol with 3 to 18 carbon atoms. There are no particular restrictions on whether the alcohol has unsaturated bonds; it can be an alcohol with a straight-chain or branched hydrocarbon group, or an alcohol with a ring. When the alcohol has a branched hydrocarbon group, there are no particular restrictions on the position of the branch; for example, it can be a carbon chain branched at the α-position or a carbon chain branched at the β-position. Furthermore, it can be a primary alcohol or a secondary alcohol.

[0027] Specific examples of monohydric alcohols include (1) straight-chain alkanols such as propanol, butanol, pentanol, hexanol, octanol, nonanol, decanol, undecanol, dodecanol (lauryl alcohol), tridecanol, tetradecanol, pentadecanol, hexadecanol, heptadecanol, octadecanol, etc.; (2) branched-chain alkanols such as isopropanol, isobutanol, isohexanol, 2-ethylhexanol, isononanol, isodecanol, isododecanol, isotridecanol, isotetradecanol, isopentadecanol, isohexadecanol, isohexadecanol, isohexadecanol, isohexadecanol, isohexadecanol, isohexadecanol, etc.; (3) straight-chain enols such as tetradecenol, hexadecenol, heptadecanol, octadecenol, oleyl alcohol, etc.; (4) branched-chain enols such as isohexadecanol, isohexadecanol, etc.; (5) cyclic alkanols such as cyclopentanol, cyclohexanol, etc.; (6) aromatic alcohols such as benzyl alcohol; (7) phenols such as phenol, nonanol, monostyrene phenol, bisphenol A, etc.

[0028] Specific examples of diol compounds include propylene glycol, 1,3-propanediol, 1,2-butanediol, 1,3-butanediol, 1,4-butanediol, 2-methyl-1,2-propanediol, 1,5-pentanediol, 1,6-hexanediol, 2,5-hexanediol, 2-methyl-2,4-pentanediol, 2,3-dimethyl-2,3-butanediol, diethylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, copolymers of polyethylene glycol and polypropylene glycol, etc.

[0029] Specific examples of tri- to tetrahydric alcohols include glycerol, diglycerol, neopentyl tertrol, trimethylolpropane, 2-methyl-2-hydroxymethyl-1,3-propanediol, 1,2,3-butanetriol, 1,2,4-butanetriol, erythritol, 1,2,3-pentanetriol, 1,2,4-pentanetriol, etc.

[0030] The alcohol used as a raw material for the polyether compound (A) is preferably a tri- to tetra-ol. Furthermore, the polyether compound (A) is more preferably formed by the addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a tri- or tetra-ol having 3 to 12 carbon atoms. Such polyether compounds (A) can further enhance the smoothness imparted to the fibers by the treatment agent.

[0031] The alcohol used as a raw material for the polyether compound (A) can be used alone or in combination of two or more, which is preferable to improve the effect of the present invention.

[0032] The total number of addition moles of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, which are epoxides, can be appropriately set within the range of the mass average molecular weight of the polyether compound (A). This total number of addition moles is preferably 230 moles or more and 720 moles or less, more preferably 300 moles or more and 630 moles or less. It can also be any combination of the above upper and lower limits. Here, the number of addition moles of epoxides represents the number of moles of epoxides of the target compound 1 mole in the filling material. The epoxide addition mode can be any of block addition, random addition, and a combination of block addition and random addition. From the viewpoint of further improving the effect of the present invention, random addition is preferred.

[0033] The molar ratio (ethylene oxide / propylene oxide) of ethylene oxide to propylene oxide in the polyether compound (A) can be appropriately set, preferably 20 / 80 to 95 / 5, more preferably 30 / 70 to 90 / 10. By limiting it to this range, the effect of the present invention can be improved. It can also be any combination of the above upper and lower limits.

[0034] The lower limit of the mass average molecular weight (Mw) of the polyether compound (A) is 14,000 or more, preferably 17,000 or more. When the lower limit of the mass average molecular weight (Mw) is 14,000 or more, the smoothness imparted to the fiber by the treatment agent can be improved. The upper limit of the mass average molecular weight (Mw) is 32,000 or less, preferably 30,000 or less. When the upper limit of the mass average molecular weight (Mw) is 32,000 or less, the effect of the present invention can be improved. It can also be any combination of the above upper and lower limits.

[0035] The mass average molecular weight (Mw) of the polyether compound (A) can be determined by gel permeation chromatography (hereinafter referred to as "GPC method"). The details of the GPC method are described below.

[0036] The lower limit of the molecular weight distribution (Mw / Mn) of the polyether compound (A) can be appropriately set, preferably 1.05 or higher, more preferably 1.10 or higher. The upper limit of the molecular weight distribution (Mw / Mn) can be appropriately set, preferably 2.10 or lower, more preferably 1.90 or lower. By limiting the molecular weight distribution (Mw / Mn) to this range, the effects of the present invention can be improved. It can also be any combination of the above upper and lower limits. The molecular weight distribution (Mw / Mn) of the polyether compound (A) can be determined by GPC. Details of the method for determining the molecular weight distribution (Mw / Mn) are described below.

[0037] The lower limit of the kinematic viscosity (50°C) of the polyether compound (A) can be appropriately set, preferably 5000 mm² / s or higher. The upper limit of the kinematic viscosity (50°C) can be appropriately set, preferably 20000 mm² / s or lower. By limiting it to this range, the effect of the present invention can be improved. It can also be any combination of the above upper and lower limits. The kinematic viscosity at 50°C is measured according to JIS Z 8803.

[0038] The polyether compounds (A) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0039] The lower limit of the content of polyether compound (A) in the non-volatile components of the treatment agent is 50% by mass or more, preferably 55% by mass or more. When the content is 50% by mass or more, the smoothness imparted to the fiber by the treatment agent can be improved. The upper limit of the content of polyether compound (A) can be appropriately set, preferably less than 100% by mass, more preferably less than 99% by mass. When the content is less than 100% by mass, the bulkiness imparted to the fiber by the treatment agent can be further improved. The range can also be any combination of the above upper and lower limits.

[0040] In this specification, non-volatile components refer to those components that have been completely removed by heat treatment at 105°C for 2 hours.

[0041] (Organophosphate (B)) By containing an organophosphate (B) in the treatment agent, the bulkiness imparted by the treatment agent to the fiber can be improved. The organophosphate (B) is at least one of aliphatic alcohols having 4 to 12 carbon atoms, or their salts.

[0042] Examples of organophosphates (B) include, for example, alkyl phosphates and other organophosphates having saturated hydrocarbon groups, alkenyl phosphates and other organophosphates having unsaturated hydrocarbon groups, organophosphates having (poly)epoxide chains, and salts thereof. The hydrocarbon groups constituting the organophosphates may be linear or branched.

[0043] Examples of organic phosphate esters (B) used in this embodiment include monophosphate esters, diesters, and diphosphate esters.

[0044] The phosphate monoester is, for example, a compound represented by the following general formula (1).

[0045] In general formula (1), R1 is a residue of an aliphatic monohydric alcohol with 4 to 12 carbon atoms after removing the hydroxyl group, A1O is an alkyloxy group with 2 to 4 carbon atoms, n1 is an integer from 0 to 100, and M1 and M2 are hydrogen atoms, alkali metals, alkaline earth metals (1 / 2), ammonium, or organic amines, respectively.

[0046] In this context, since alkaline earth metals are divalent, alkaline earth metal (1 / 2) means adding 1 / 2 moles to M1 or M2 (the same applies below).

[0047] Specific examples of aliphatic monohydric alcohols constituting R1 include (1) straight-chain alkanols such as butanol, pentanol, hexanol, octanol, nonanol, decanol, undecanol, and dodecanol; (2) branched alkanols such as isobutanol, isohexanol, 2-ethylhexanol, isononol, isodecanol, and isodecanol; (3) straight-chain enols such as decenol and dodecenol; (4) branched enols such as isodecanol and isodecanol; and (5) cyclic alkanols such as cyclopentanol and cyclohexanol.

[0048] Specific examples of the alkyloxy groups constituting A1O include the ethyleneoxy group obtained from ethylene oxide, the propyleneoxy group obtained from propylene oxide, and the butenoxy group obtained from butane oxide. The epoxide can be used alone or in combination with two or more epoxides. When two or more types of epoxides are used, the addition form can be any of block addition, random addition, or a combination of block addition and random addition, without particular limitation. The molar addition number of the epoxide can be appropriately set, preferably 100 moles or less, more preferably 0.1 moles to 40 moles, and most preferably 1 mole to 30 moles. It can also be any combination of the above upper and lower limits.

[0049] Specific examples of alkali metals include sodium, potassium, and lithium. Specific examples of alkaline earth metals include magnesium and calcium.

[0050] Specific examples of organic amines include (1) aliphatic amines such as methylamine, dimethylamine, trimethylamine, ethylamine, diethylamine, triethylamine, N-N-diisopropylethylamine, butylamine, dibutylamine, 2-methylbutylamine, tributylamine, octylamine, laurylamine, dimethyllaurylamine, etc.; (2) aromatic amines or heterocyclic amines such as aniline, N-methylbenzylamine, pyridine, morpholine, piperazine, and their derivatives; (3) alkanolamines such as monoethanolamine, N-methylethanolamine, diethanolamine, triethanolamine, isopropanolamine, diisopropanolamine, triisopropanolamine, dibutylethanolamine, butyl diethanolamine, octyl diethanolamine, lauryl diethanolamine, etc.; (4) allylamines such as 3-aminopropylene; (5) polyoxyethylene laurylamine ether, polyoxyethylene stearylamine ether, etc.

[0051] M1 and M2 may be the same as or different from each other.

[0052] Phosphate diesters are, for example, compounds represented by the following general formula (2).

[0053] In general formula (2), R2 and R3 are residues of aliphatic monohydric alcohols with 4 to 12 carbon atoms after removing the hydroxyl group, A2O and A3O are alkyloxy groups with 2 to 4 carbon atoms, n2 and n3 are integers with 0 to 100, and M3 is a hydrogen atom, an alkali metal, an alkaline earth metal (1 / 2), an ammonium, or an organic amine.

[0054] The aliphatic monohydric alcohols constituting R2 or R3 with 4 or more but less than 12 carbon atoms are exemplified by the aliphatic monohydric alcohols constituting R1 in general formula (1).

[0055] Examples of the alkyloxy groups constituting A2O or A3O include those exemplified by the alkyloxy groups constituting A1O in general formula (1).

[0056] The alkali metal, alkaline earth metal or organic amine constituting M3 can be exemplified by the alkali metal, alkaline earth metal or organic amine constituting M1 or M2 in general formula (1).

[0057] R2, R3 and A2O, A3O can be the same as or different from each other.

[0058] Diphosphate is, for example, a compound represented by the following general formula (3).

[0059] In general formula (3), Q1, Q2, and Q3 are hydrogen atoms, alkali metals, alkaline earth metals (1 / 2), ammonium, organic amines, or -(A5O)n5R5, respectively; R4 and R5 are residues of aliphatic monohydric alcohols with 4 to 12 carbon atoms after removing the hydroxyl group; A4O and A5O are alkyloxy groups with 2 to 4 carbon atoms, respectively; and n4 and n5 are integers with 0 to 100.

[0060] The alkali metals, alkaline earth metals or organic amines constituting Q1, Q2 or Q3 can be exemplified by the alkali metals, alkaline earth metals or organic amines constituting M1 or M2 in general formula (1).

[0061] The residues of the aliphatic monohydric alcohols with 4 or more carbons and less than 12 carbons that constitute R4 or R5 after removing the hydroxyl group can be exemplified by the residues of the aliphatic monohydric alcohols with 4 or more carbons and less than 12 carbons that constitute R1 in general formula (1) after removing the hydroxyl group.

[0062] Examples of the alkyloxy groups constituting A4O or A5O include those exemplified by the alkyloxy groups constituting A1O in general formula (1).

[0063] R4, R5, A4O, A5O, Q1, Q2, Q3 may be the same as or different from each other.

[0064] These organophosphates (B) may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0065] The lower limit of the content of organophosphate ester (B) in the non-volatile components of the treatment agent is preferably 4% by mass or more, and more preferably 5% by mass or more. When the content is 4% by mass or more, the bulkiness imparted to the fiber by the treatment agent can be improved. The upper limit of the content of organophosphate ester (B) can be appropriately set, preferably 50% by mass or less, and more preferably 45% by mass or less. When the content is 50% by mass or less, the smoothness imparted to the fiber by the treatment agent can be improved. Any combination of the above upper and lower limits is also possible.

[0066] The non-volatile components of the treatment agent preferably contain 55% to 95% by mass of a polyether compound (A) and 5% to 45% by mass of an organophosphate ester (B). By limiting the content to this range, the effects of the present invention can be further improved. The range may also be any combination of the above-mentioned upper and lower limits.

[0067] (Antioxidant (C)) By containing antioxidant (C), the smoothness imparted to the fiber by the treatment agent can be improved.

[0068] Specific examples of antioxidants (C) include, for example, (1) phenolic antioxidants such as 1,3,5-triazine-2,4,6-(1H,3H,5H)-trione, 1,1,3-triazine-2-methyl-4-hydroxy-5-t-butanyl)butane, neopentyl tert-[3',5'-di-t-butyl-4'-hydroxyphenyl)propionate]; (2) 2,2-bis({[3-(dodecylthio)propoxy}methyl)-1,3-propanediyl=bis[3-(dodecylthio)propionate], bis(tetrazyl-1-yl=3,3'-thionediyldipropionate) and other thioether antioxidants; (3) 3,9-bis(2,6-di-t-butyl-4-methylphenoxy)-2,4,8,10-tetraoxa-3,9-diphosspiro[5.5]undecane and other phosphorus antioxidants.

[0069] The lower limit of the content of antioxidant (C) in the non-volatile components of the treatment agent is preferably 0.05% by mass or more, and more preferably 1% by mass or more. When the content is 0.05% by mass or more, the smoothness imparted to the fiber by the treatment agent can be improved. The upper limit of the content of antioxidant (C) can be appropriately set, preferably 6% by mass or less, and more preferably 5% by mass or less. When the content is 6% by mass or less, the effect of the present invention can be improved. The range can also be any combination of the above upper and lower limits.

[0070] The non-volatile components of the treatment agent preferably contain 94% to 99.9% by mass of a polyether compound (A) and 0.1% to 6% by mass of an antioxidant (C). By limiting the content to this range, the effects of the present invention can be improved. The range may also be any combination of the above upper and lower limits.

[0071] The non-volatile components of the treatment agent preferably contain 55% to 94% by mass of a polyether compound (A), 5% to 45% by mass of an organophosphate ester (B), and 0.1% to 5% by mass of an antioxidant (C). By limiting the content to this range, the effects of the present invention can be improved. The range may also be any combination of the above upper and lower limits.

[0072] (pH) The lower limit of the pH of a 1% by mass aqueous solution of the treatment agent can be appropriately set, preferably 7.0 or higher. When the pH is 7.0 or higher, the smoothness imparted to the fiber by the treatment agent, especially the smoothness over time, can be improved. The upper limit of the pH of a 1% by mass aqueous solution of the treatment agent can be appropriately set, preferably 10.0 or lower. When the pH is 10.0 or lower, the effect of the present invention can be further improved. The range can also be any combination of the above upper and lower limits.

[0073] (Preservation form) The treatment agent may be configured as a dosage form 1 containing the above-mentioned polyether compound (A), organophosphate ester (B) and antioxidant (C), or, from the viewpoint of improving formulation stability, it may be configured as a multi-dosage form such as a dosage form 2 or a dosage form 3 as shown below.

[0074] The multi-form treatment agent is configured to include, in groups, at least one of the following: a first treatment agent for polyester staple fibers containing a polyether compound (A) (hereinafter referred to as "first treatment agent"), a second treatment agent for polyester staple fibers containing an organophosphate ester (B) (hereinafter referred to as "second treatment agent"), and a third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers containing an antioxidant (C) (hereinafter referred to as "third treatment agent").

[0075] For the 3-dosage form treatment agent, the first, second, and third treatment agents are prepared separately from each other before use, such as during storage or distribution, and are only mixed and prepared when used. The same applies to the 2-dosage form treatment agent; the first, second, or third treatment agent is prepared separately from each other before use, and is only mixed and prepared when used.

[0076] (Solvent) The treatment agent of this embodiment may also be mixed with a solvent as appropriate to prepare a composition containing a treatment agent for polyester staple fibers or a diluted solution containing a treatment agent for polyester staple fibers (hereinafter referred to as "composition containing treatment agent, etc."), and stored or distributed in such form.

[0077] The solvent is a solvent with a boiling point of 105°C or below at one atmosphere. Examples of solvents include water and organic solvents. Specific examples of organic solvents include lower alcohols such as ethanol and propanol, or low-polarity solvents such as hexane. One type of solvent may be used alone, or two or more may be used in appropriate combinations. Among these, polar solvents such as water and lower alcohols are preferred from the viewpoint of excellent dispersibility or solubility of each component, and water is more preferred from the viewpoint of excellent operability.

[0078] (Effects of this embodiment) The effects of the treatment agent in the first embodiment will be explained.

[0079] (1-1) The treatment agent of the first embodiment described above contains the polyether compound (A). Therefore, it is possible to improve the smoothness imparted to the fiber by the treatment agent, especially the smoothness over time. In this way, the quality imparted to the fiber by the treatment agent can be improved. For example, when short fibers are used as filling cotton, fiber entanglement and unevenness can be reduced.

[0080] In addition, it can enhance the fluffiness imparted to the fibers by the treatment agent. For example, when short fibers are used as filling cotton, it can improve the feel.

[0081] (1-2) The treatment agent of the first embodiment described above is not mainly composed of polysiloxane, nor is it necessary to be mainly composed of polysiloxane. Therefore, the flame retardancy of the treatment agent can be improved.

[0082] (1-3)When the pH of a 1% by mass aqueous solution of the treatment agent is 7.0 or higher and 10.0 or lower, the warp smoothness imparted to the fiber by the treatment agent can be further improved.

[0083] (1-4) When the treatment agent contains the above-mentioned organic phosphate ester (B), the bulkiness imparted to the fiber by the treatment agent can be further improved.

[0084] (1-5) When the treatment agent contains the above-mentioned antioxidant (C), it can further improve the smoothness imparted by the treatment agent to the fiber, especially the smoothness over time.

[0085] <Second Embodiment> Next, a second embodiment of the present invention, namely the first processing agent, will be described. The description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment.

[0086] The first treatment agent of this embodiment contains the above-mentioned polyether compound (A). When used, the first treatment agent is used in conjunction with a second treatment agent containing the above-mentioned organophosphate ester (B) and a third treatment agent containing the above-mentioned antioxidant (C), and is prepared as a different agent from the second and third treatment agents before use. When used, a mixture of the first, second, and third treatment agents is prepared as the treatment agent. The polyether compound (A) and other components contained in the first, second, and third treatment agents are the same as those described in the first embodiment.

[0087] (Solvent) The first treatment agent of this embodiment may also be mixed with a solvent as appropriate to prepare a composition containing the first treatment agent for polyester staple fibers or a diluted solution containing the first treatment agent for polyester staple fibers (hereinafter referred to as "composition containing the first treatment agent, etc."), and stored or distributed in such forms. The solvent may be those exemplified in the first embodiment.

[0088] (Effects of this embodiment) The effects of the first treatment agent in the second embodiment described above will be explained. In addition to the effects of the first embodiment, the second embodiment described above also has the following effects.

[0089] (2-1) The first treatment agent of the second embodiment contains the above-mentioned polyether compound (A). Before use, the first treatment agent is prepared in a different manner from the second treatment agent containing the above-mentioned organophosphate ester (B) and the third treatment agent containing the antioxidant (C). When used, the first treatment agent is used in combination with the second and third treatment agents to prepare a mixture of the first, second, and third treatment agents as a treatment agent.

[0090] Therefore, the formulation stability of the first treatment agent during storage or distribution can be improved, especially its storage stability. Furthermore, the composition of the obtained treatment agent can be adjusted by adjusting the mixing ratio between the second and third treatment agents. Additionally, the first treatment agent can be distributed separately from the second and third treatment agents.

[0091] <Third Embodiment> Next, a third embodiment of the present invention, namely the second processing agent, will be described. The description will focus on the differences from the first and second embodiments.

[0092] The second treatment agent of this embodiment contains the above-mentioned organophosphate ester (B). The second treatment agent is used in conjunction with the first treatment agent containing the polyether compound (A), and is configured as a different agent from the first treatment agent before use. Furthermore, the second treatment agent is selectively used in conjunction with a third treatment agent containing an antioxidant (C), and is configured as a different agent from the third treatment agent before use. When used, a mixture of the first treatment agent, the second treatment agent, and the third treatment agent (as an optional component) is prepared as the treatment agent. The components, such as the polyether compound (A), contained in the first, second, and third treatment agents are the same as those described in the first embodiment.

[0093] (Solvent) The second treatment agent of this embodiment may also be mixed with a solvent as appropriate to prepare a composition containing the second treatment agent for polyester staple fibers or a diluted solution containing the second treatment agent for polyester staple fibers (hereinafter referred to as "composition containing the second treatment agent, etc."), and stored or distributed in such forms. The solvent may be the one exemplified in the first embodiment.

[0094] (Effects of this embodiment) The effects of the second treatment agent in the third embodiment described above will be explained. In addition to the effects of the first and second embodiments, the third embodiment also has the following effects.

[0095] (3-1) The second treatment agent of the third embodiment contains the above-mentioned organophosphate ester (B). Before use, the second treatment agent is prepared in a different manner from the first treatment agent containing the above-mentioned polyether compound (A) and the third treatment agent containing the antioxidant (C). When in use, the second treatment agent is used in combination with the first treatment agent and the third treatment agent as an optional component to prepare a mixture of the first treatment agent, the second treatment agent and the third treatment agent as a treatment agent. Therefore, the formulation stability of the second treatment agent during storage or distribution can be improved, especially the storage stability. In addition, the composition of the obtained treatment agent can be adjusted by adjusting the mixing ratio between the first treatment agent and the third treatment agent. Furthermore, the second treatment agent can be distributed separately from the first treatment agent and the third treatment agent.

[0096] <Fourth Embodiment> Next, a fourth embodiment of the present invention, namely the third processing agent, will be described. The description will focus on the differences from the first to third embodiments.

[0097] The third treatment agent of this embodiment contains the aforementioned antioxidant (C). The third treatment agent is used in conjunction with the first treatment agent containing the polyether compound (A), and is configured as a different agent from the first treatment agent before use. Furthermore, the third treatment agent is selectively used in conjunction with a second treatment agent containing an organophosphate ester (B), and is configured as a different agent from the second treatment agent before use. When used, a mixture of the first treatment agent, the third treatment agent, and the second treatment agent (as an optional component) is prepared as the treatment agent. The components, such as the polyether compound (A), contained in the first, second, and third treatment agents are the same as those described in the first embodiment.

[0098] (Solvent) The third treatment agent of this embodiment may also be mixed with a solvent as appropriate to prepare a composition containing the third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers or a diluted solution containing the third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers (hereinafter referred to as "composition containing the third treatment agent, etc."), and stored or distributed in such forms. The solvent may be the one exemplified in the first embodiment.

[0099] (Effects of this embodiment) The effects of the third processing agent in the fourth embodiment described above will be explained. In addition to the effects of the first to third embodiments, the fourth embodiment also has the following effects.

[0100] (4-1) The third treatment agent of the fourth embodiment contains the above-mentioned antioxidant (C). Before use, the third treatment agent is prepared in a different manner from the first treatment agent containing the above-mentioned polyether compound (A) and the second treatment agent containing the organophosphate ester (B). When used, the third treatment agent is used in combination with the first treatment agent and the second treatment agent as an optional component to prepare a mixture of the first treatment agent, the second treatment agent and the third treatment agent as a treatment agent. Therefore, the formulation stability of the third treatment agent during storage or distribution can be improved, especially the storage stability. In addition, the composition of the obtained treatment agent can be adjusted by adjusting the mixing ratio between the first treatment agent and the second treatment agent. Furthermore, the third treatment agent can be distributed separately from the first treatment agent and the second treatment agent.

[0101] <Fifth Embodiment> A fifth embodiment of the present invention will be described, namely, polyester staple fiber. The polyester staple fiber of this embodiment is a treated polyester staple fiber with the treatment agent of the first embodiment attached to its surface. By attaching the treatment agent to the surface of the polyester staple fiber, polyester staple fiber exhibiting the effects of the present invention can be obtained.

[0102] (Uses of the fiber) Short fiber generally refers to what is called "staple" and does not include long fiber called "filament". Furthermore, the length of the short fiber is not particularly limited as long as it meets the definition of short fiber in this technical field, for example, 100 mm or less, preferably 30 mm to 70 mm. The short fiber is preferably suitable for use in the manufacture of filling cotton, non-woven fabrics, etc. By using the polyester-based short fiber of the present invention as a filling cotton, excellent smoothness, fluffiness, and other tactile qualities can be imparted to filling cotton such as plush toys, quilts, and clothing. The short fiber is composed of the following synthetic fibers.

[0103] (Synthetic Fibers) Specific examples of synthetic fibers include polyester synthetic fibers. Specific examples of polyester synthetic fibers include, for example, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polylactic acid, and composite fibers formed containing such polyester resins.

[0104] (Adhesion treatment of the treatment agent) There is no particular limitation on the proportion of the treatment agent of the first embodiment adhering to the synthetic fiber. It is preferable that the solvent-free treatment agent is adhering to the synthetic fiber at a concentration of 0.1% to 2% by mass or less, and more preferably that the solvent-free treatment agent is adhering to the synthetic fiber at a concentration of 0.2% to 1.2% by mass or less.

[0105] The method for attaching the treatment agent to the synthetic fiber may, for example, use a composition containing the treatment agent of the first embodiment and water, or a diluted solution containing the treatment agent and then diluted with a solvent. Known methods may be used, such as impregnation, spraying, rolling, or guided oiling using a metering pump.

[0106] (Effects of this embodiment) The effects of the polyester staple fiber of the fifth embodiment will be explained. In addition to the effects of the embodiments described above, the fifth embodiment also has the following effects.

[0107] (5-1) The polyester staple fiber of the fifth embodiment is coated with the treatment agent of the first embodiment. Therefore, polyester staple fiber with improved smoothness and fluffiness can be obtained. Therefore, when the polyester staple fiber of the fifth embodiment is used as, for example, filling cotton, the tactile feel can be improved.

[0108] (Modification Example) The above-described implementation method can also be modified as follows. The above-described implementation method and the following modifications can be combined and implemented with each other within the scope of technical non-contradiction.

[0109] • Without impairing the effects of the present invention, the treatment agents, compositions, or diluents of the above embodiments can be further combined with other solvents, stabilizers, antistatic agents, adhesives, antioxidants other than those mentioned above, ultraviolet absorbers, surfactants other than those mentioned above, pH adjusters, and other ingredients commonly used in treatment agents to maintain the quality of the treatment agents, etc. From the viewpoint of effectively maximizing the performance of the present invention, the content of other components besides solvents is preferably 10% by mass or less in each treatment agent. Furthermore, other components can be stored separately from the above-mentioned treatment agents.

[0110] Furthermore, without impairing the effects of the present invention, the treatment agent of the first embodiment may also contain a polysiloxane compound. From the viewpoint of improving flame retardancy, the content of the polysiloxane compound in the treatment agent is preferably 5% by mass or less, and more preferably 1% by mass or less.

[0111] Example

[0112] The following embodiments are provided to illustrate the structure and effects of the present invention in more detail, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. In the following descriptions of embodiments and comparative examples, parts represent parts by mass, and % represents percentages by mass.

[0113] Test Category 1 (Preparation of Treatment Agent)

[0114] (Example 1) As shown in Table 1 below, 55 parts of polyether compound (A-1) as polyether compound (A), 7 parts of polyether compound (a-1), 37 parts of n-butyl phosphate and its potassium salt (B-1) as organophosphate ester (B), and 1 part of 1,1,3-tris(2-methyl-4-hydroxy-5-t-butyryl)butane (C-1) as antioxidant (C) were put into a container and mixed thoroughly to prepare the treatment agent of Example 1.

[0115] (Examples 2-44, Comparative Examples 1-4) Each treatment agent of Examples 2-44 and Comparative Examples 1-4 was prepared using the components shown in Tables 1 and 2 in the same manner as in Example 1.

[0116] The types and contents of polyether compounds (A), organophosphates (B), and antioxidants (C) in the treatment agents of each example are shown in the columns “Polyether Compounds (A)”, “Organophosphates (B)”, and “Antioxidants (C)” of Tables 1 and 2, respectively.

[0117] In addition, the pH of a 1% aqueous solution of each treatment agent is shown in the "pH of 1% aqueous solution" column of Tables 1 and 2.

[0118] Table 1 Treatment agent evaluate Polyether compound (A) Organophosphates (B) Antioxidants (C) pH of 1% aqueous solution Smoothness Smoothness over time fluffy type % type % type % Example 1 A-1 55 B-1 37 C-1 1 7.7 4 4 3 a-1 7​​​​ Example 2 A-1 60.9 B-2 39 C-1 0.1 8.0 4 4 3 Example 3 A-1 65 B-4 17 C-2 3 7.9 4 4 3 a-5 15 Example 4 A-2 70 B-2 20 C-1 2 8.3 4 4 3 a-3 8 Example 5 A-2 75 B-7​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ 19 C-4 1 8.0 4 4 3 a-1 5 Example 6 A-5 63 B-3 35 C-2 2 8.2 4 4 3 Example 7 A-5 62 B-3 35 C-2 3 8.2 4 4 3 Example 8 A-3 75 B-4 20 C-1 1 7.8 4 4 3 a-5 4 Example 9 A-3 70 B-2 12​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ C-3 3 7.9 4 4 3 a-4 15 Example 10 A-6 85 B-4 10 C-5 1 7.2 4 4 3 a-5 4 Example 11 A-6 75 B-1 twenty one C-2 0.5 7.2 4 4 3 a-3 3 C-5 0.5 Example 12 A-7 89 B-7 9 C-5​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ 0.5 8.1 4 4 3 a-1 1.5 Example 13 A-7 80 B-1 18 C-1 2 8.0 4 4 3 Example 14 A-1 70 B-3 29.5 C-5 0.5 7.6 4 4 3 Example 15 A-3 50 B-2 32 C-3 3 7.9 3 3 3 a-4 15 Example 16 A-2 86 B-2 4 C-1 ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​2 8.4 4 4 2 a-3 8 Example 17 A-8 55 B-1 40 C-1 1 7.8 3 3 3 a-1 4 Example 18 A-9 75 B-7 19 C-4 1 8.9 3 3 3 a-1 5 Example 19 A-10 75 B-7 19 C-4 1 7.7 ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​3 3 3 a-1 5 Example 20 A-11 75 B-7 19 C-4 1 7.8 3 3 3 a-1 5 Example 21 A-4 55 B-6 43 C-5 0.5 6.2 4 3 3 a-4 1.5 Example 22 A-5 63 B-3 37 8.2 3 3 ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​3 Example 23 A-3 80 B-3 15 7.7 3 3 3 a-3 5 Example 24 A-3 80 B-4 20 7.8 3 3 3

[0119] Table 2 Treatment agent evaluate Polyether compound (A) Organophosphates (B) Antioxidants (C) pH of 1% aqueous solution Smoothness Smoothness over time fluffy type % type % type % Example 25 A-7 65 B-5 35 8.1 3 3 3​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Example 26 A-1 70 B-3 30 7.6 3 3 3 Example 27 A-1 70 B-6 30 7.7 3 3 3 Example 28 A-6 70 B-4 10 7.2 3 3 3 a-4 20 Example 29 A-6 50 B-4 30 7.2 2 2 3 a-4 20 Example 30​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ A-6 76 B-4 4 7..2 3 3 2 a-4 20 Example 31 A-4 70 B-3 30 5.9 3 2 3 Example 32 A-2 90 C-2 2 8.4 4 4 2 a-3 8 Example 33 A-3 87 C-1 0.5 7.9 4 4 2 a-3 5​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ C-4 0.5 a-5 7 Example 34 A-3 95 C-1 1 7.9 4 4 2 a-5 4 Example 35 A-6 99 C-1 1 7.2 4 4 2 Example 36 A-2 100 8.4 3 3 2 Example 37 A-3 100 ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ 7.9 3 3 2 Example 38 A-5 100 9.0 3 3 2 Example 39 A-6 70 b-1 10 7.2 3 3 2 a-4 20 Example 40 A-1 55 b-2 45 8.6 3 3 2 Example 41 A-12 90 C-3 2 6.0 3 2 2 a-5 8 ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ Example 42 A-8 100 8.2 2 2 2 Example 43 A-10 100 8.0 2 2 2 Example 44 A-11 100 8.1 2 2 2 Comparative Example 1 a-1 40 b-2 60 8.6 1 1 2 Comparative Example 2 a-1 55 b-2 45 8.5 1 1 2 Comparative Example 3 a-2 100 8.4 ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​1 1 1 Comparative Example 4 A-1 30 B-3 70 7.2 1 1 3

[0120] The details of the polyether compound (A), organophosphate ester (B), and antioxidant (C) listed in Tables 1 and 2 are as follows.

[0121] <Polyether compound (A)> The polyether compound is A-1 to A-12, a-1 to a-5 as shown in Table 3 below.

[0122] (Synthesis of polyether compounds) One mole of an alcohol and an appropriate amount of potassium hydroxide as a catalyst were added to an autoclave reactor and heated to 100°C while stirring. Then, dehydration under reduced pressure was performed. Next, the temperature was raised to 130°C while stirring, and ethylene oxide (hereinafter referred to as EO) and propylene oxide (hereinafter referred to as PO) were slowly added for random addition, or EO was added after the addition of PO for block addition. The pH was adjusted using phosphoric acid as needed. Details of the polyether compounds A-1 to A-12 and a-1 to a-5 obtained in this manner are shown in Table 3. Specifically, the alcohols used in the raw materials, the average number of EO addition moles, the average number of PO addition moles, the EO / PO mole ratio, the addition form of EO and PO, the mass average molecular weight of the obtained polyether compound, and the molecular weight distribution (Mw / Mn) are shown in the "Alcohols", "Average Number of EO Addition Moles", "Average Number of PO Addition Moles", "EO / PO Mole Ratio", "Addition Form", "Mass Average Mole Weight", and "Molecular Weight Distribution (Mw / Mn)" columns of Table 3, respectively.

[0123] The kinematic viscosity (50°C) of the polyether compounds shown in Table 3 is in the range of 5000 to 20000 mm² / s. In addition, the molecular weight distribution can be determined by the following method.

[0124] (Molecular Weight Distribution) The molecular weight distribution was determined using gel permeation chromatography (GPC). The mass-average molecular weight is the maximum peak value detected by the detector. The molecular weight distribution of the main peak during GPC determination is used for determination. The apparatus used is a Tosoh HLC-8320 GPC, and the determination was performed under the following conditions.​​

[0125] Column: TSK gel Super H4000 (manufactured by Tosoh Corporation); TSK gel Super H3000 (manufactured by Tosoh Corporation); TSK gel Super H2000 (manufactured by Tosoh Corporation) Column temperature: 40℃ Detection device: Differential refractive index detector Sample solution: 0.25% tetrahydrofuran solution Solution flow rate: 0.5 mL / min Solution injection volume: 10 μL Standard data: Polystyrene

[0126] Table 3 alcohols EO average bonus Morse number PO average addition Morse number EO / PO Mole ratio Added form Mass average molecular weight Molecular weight distribution Mw / Mn A-1 glycerin 150 350 30 / 70 Unregulated 27000 1.80 A-2 glycerin 180 180 50 / 50 Unregulated 18400 1.52 A-3 glycerin 420 180 70 / 30 Unregulated 29000 1.86 A-4 glycerin 323 57 85 / 15 Unregulated 17600 1.42 A-5 Trimethylolpropane ​120 280 30 / 70 Unregulated 21600 1.67 A-6 Trimethylolpropane 360 240 60 / 40 Unregulated 29900 1.75 A-7 Trimethylolpropane 288 72 80 / 20 Unregulated 17000 1.21 A-8 glycerin 210 90 70 / 30 Unregulated 14500 1.10 A-9 Propylene glycol 180 180 50 / 50 Unregulated 18400 1.25 A-10 2-Methyl-2,4-pentanediol 150 350 30 / 70 segment 27000 1.62 A-11 Lauryl alcohol 120 280 30 / 70 Unregulated 21700 1.69 A-12 Isotridecyl alcohol 441 189 70 / 30 Unregulated 30500 1.85 a-1 Propylene glycol 10.6 42.4 20 / 80 segment 3000 1.08 a-2 glycerin 72 168 30 / 70 Unregulated 13000 1.11 a-3 dodecyl alcohol and tridecyl alcohol A mixture (1:1) 40 8 83 / 17 Unregulated 2420 1.09 a-4 Isotridecyl alcohol 10 7 59 / 41 segment 1133 1.08 a-5 Tetradecanool and Pentadecanool A mixture (1:1) 32 8 80 / 20 Unregulated 2095 1.09

[0127] <Organophosphates (B)> B-1: n-Butyl phosphate and its potassium salt (acid value 25 KOH-mg / g, P-NMR integral ratio: monoester 25%, diester 30%, diphosphates 45%) B-2: n-Hexyl phosphate and its potassium salt (acid value 20 KOH-mg / g, P-NMR integral ratio: monoester 40%, diester 50%, diphosphates 10%) B-3: 2-Ethylhexyl phosphate and its potassium salt (acid value 80 KOH-mg / g, P-NMR integral ratio: monoester 40%, diester 40%, diphosphates 20%) B-4: n-Octyl phosphate and its potassium salt (acid value 25 KOH-mg / g, P-NMR integral ratio: monoester 45%, diester 45%, diphosphates 10%) B-5: n-Octyl (EO) 2 moles) phosphate esters and their potassium salts (acid value 20 KOH-mg / g, P-NMR integral ratio: monoester 40%, diester 50%, diphosphates 10%) B-6: n-dodecyl phosphate esters and their potassium salts (acid value 50 KOH-mg / g, P-NMR integral ratio: monoester 75%, diester 25%) B-7: n-dodecyl (EO 6 moles) phosphate esters and their potassium salts (acid value 150 KOH-mg / g, P-NMR integral ratio: monoester 43%, diester 54%, diphosphates 3%) b-1: cetyl phosphate esters and their potassium salts (acid value 25 KOH-mg / g, P-NMR integral ratio: monoester 45%, diester 45%, diphosphates 10%) b-2: Potassium salt of cetyl phosphate (acid value 0 KOH - mg / g, P-NMR integral ratio 50% monoester and 50% diester).

[0128] (Acid Value) The acid value (KOH mg / g) of organophosphate (B) can be determined by the following method.

[0129] First, an organophosphate ester (B) was dissolved in ion-exchanged water to prepare a sample solution. The prepared sample solution was set on a known potentiometric apparatus and titrated with a 0.1 mol / L potassium hydroxide methanol standard solution. Using the obtained titration data, the acid value was calculated using the following formula.

[0130] The acid value of organophosphate (B) (KOH mg / g) = (R × f × 56.11 × 0.1) / S

[0131] In this formula, f represents the factor of 0.1 mol / L potassium hydroxide methanol standard solution, S represents the amount of sample taken (g, converted from solid content), and R represents the amount of 0.1 mol / L potassium hydroxide methanol standard solution used up to the inversion point (mL).

[0132] <Antioxidant (C)> C-1: 1,1,3-Tris(2-methyl-4-hydroxy-5-t-butyroxy)butane C-2: Neopentyl tetroxide = tetra[3-(3',5'-di-t-butyl-4'-hydroxyphenyl)propionate] C-3: 3,9-bis(2,6-di-t-butyl-4-methylphenoxy)-2,4,8,10-tetraoxa-3,9-diphosphaspiro[5.5]undecane C-4: bis(tetrazyl-1-yl)=3,3'-thionyldipropionate C-5: 2,2-bis({[3-(dodecylthio)propoxy]methyl)-1,3-propanediyl=bis[3-(dodecylthio)propionate]

[0133] Test Category 2 (Preparation of 0.4% dilution of treatment agent)

[0134] There are no particular restrictions on the method of preparing the dilution of the treatment agent. For example, the treatment agent prepared in test category 1 is added to ion-exchange water heated to about 50°C under stirring to completely dissolve it, thereby preparing a 0.4% dilution of the treatment agent.

[0135] Test Category 3 (Preparation of cotton treated with polyester staple fiber)

[0136] 100g of a 0.4% dilution of the treatment agent prepared in each of the test categories 1 was uniformly sprayed onto 100g of polyester staple fibers with a cut length of 6 denier and a denier of 64mm. The fibers were then dried at 80°C for 1 hour, followed by heat treatment at 150°C for 10 minutes. The smoothness and bulkiness of the obtained polyester staple fiber samples were evaluated using the following method.

[0137] Test Category 4 (Smoothness)

[0138] Sample cotton coated with the various treatment agents prepared according to test category 3 was passed through a miniature roller carding machine to serve as evaluation sample cotton. Four grades of standard samples for smoothness testing were prepared, which were given different treatment agents than those used in the examples and comparative examples. In these cases, the smoothness of the standard samples was set from lowest to highest as 1 point, 2 points, 3 points, and 4 points.

[0139] The selection of the standard specimen for the smoothness test was repeatedly calibrated by five evaluators, and all five evaluators agreed on the order of smoothness magnitude. Each evaluator compared the smoothness of the sample cotton with that of the standard specimen for the smoothness test and then gave a score for the degree of smoothness. The average score given by the five evaluators was calculated, and the smoothness was evaluated using the following criteria. The results are shown in the "Smoothness" column of Tables 1 and 2.

[0140] ・Evaluation criteria for smoothness: 4 (Excellent): Average score of 3.5 or higher; 3 (Good): Average score of 3.0 or higher but lower than 3.5; 2 (Fair): Average score of 2.5 or higher but lower than 3.0; 1 (Poor): Average score of lower than 2.5.

[0141] Test Category 5 (Time-lapse Smoothness)

[0142] The sample cotton coated with each of the treatment agents prepared according to test category 3 was stored at 50°C for 2 weeks. After storage, it was passed through a miniature roller carding machine and used as sample cotton for evaluation. Each evaluator compared the smoothness of the sample cotton with that of the standard sample for the smoothness test and then gave a score for the degree of smoothness. The average score given by the 5 evaluators was calculated, and the smoothness was evaluated using the following criteria. The results are shown in the "Smoothness over Time" column of Tables 1 and 2.

[0143] ・Evaluation criteria for time smoothness: 4 (Excellent): Average score of 3.5 or higher; 3 (Good): Average score of 3.0 or higher but lower than 3.5; 2 (Fair): Average score of 2.5 or higher but lower than 3.0; 1 (Poor): Average score lower than 2.5.

[0144] Test Category 6 (Fluffiness)

[0145] 40g of sample cotton coated with each of the treatment agents prepared under test category 3 was processed through a roller carding machine to form a 30cm × 100cm carding web. Four 15cm × 15cm pieces were cut from this carding web as raw materials. The four pieces of raw material were overlapped with their fiber directions perpendicular to each other to form a cube. The cube was left to stand at 20°C and 40% RH for 30 minutes. Then, a 15cm × 15cm metal plate (135g) was placed on the cube, and the height of the cube (h1) was recorded in 0.1cm increments after 1 minute. Then, a 1125g weight was placed on the metal plate, and the height (h2) was recorded after 24 hours. The weight was then removed. The height of the cube (h3) was recorded 1 minute after the weight was removed. The recovery rate was calculated using the following formula.

[0146] Recovery rate (%) = 100 × (h3 - h2) / (h1 - h2)

[0147] A higher recovery rate indicates better fluffiness of the sample cotton. The results are shown in the "Fluffiness" column of Tables 1 and 2.

[0148] ・Evaluation criteria for fluffiness: 3 (Good): Recovery rate ≥ 80%; 2 (Fair): Recovery rate ≥ 50% but < 80%; 1 (Poor): Recovery rate < 50%.

[0149] Test Category 7 (Preparation of 3 Dosage Form Treatment Agents and Preparation of Treatment Agents)

[0150] The first agent of the three-formula treatment agent of Example 1-1 was prepared by using the above-mentioned polyether compound (A-1) as polyether compound (A). The second agent of the three-formula treatment agent of Example 1-1 was obtained by using the above-mentioned n-butyl phosphate and its potassium salt (B-1) as organophosphate ester (B). The third agent of the three-formula treatment agent of Example 1-1 was obtained by thoroughly mixing 7 parts of polyether compound (a-1) with 1 part of 1,1,3-tris(2-methyl-4-hydroxy-5-t-butyryl)butane (C-1) as antioxidant (C).

[0151] 55 parts of the first agent, 37 parts of the second agent, and 8 parts of the third agent of the above three dosage form treatment agent were put into a container and mixed thoroughly to prepare the mixture of the three dosage form treatment agent of Example 1-1.

[0152] Using this mixture, smoothness, smoothness over time, and fluffiness were evaluated using the same method as the treatment agent in Example 1. The results obtained were the same as those in Example 1.

[0153] As can be seen from the results in the table above, the smoothness and fluffiness of the fibers treated with the treatment agent can be improved respectively according to the present invention.

[0154] This disclosure also includes the following correspondence.

[0155] (Appendix 1) A treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, comprising the following polyether compound (A) and the following organophosphate ester (B), characterized in that: the non-volatile component of the above-mentioned polyester staple fiber treatment agent contains 50% by mass or more of the above-mentioned polyether compound (A). Polyether compound (A): formed by the addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a mono- to tetrahydric alcohol having 3 to 18 carbon atoms, having a mass average molecular weight of 14,000 to 32,000. Organophosphate ester (B): selected from at least one of phosphate esters of aliphatic alcohols having 4 to 12 carbon atoms, and their salts.

[0156] (Appendix 2) The treatment agent for polyester staple fibers as described in Appendix 1, wherein the pH of a 1% by mass aqueous solution is 7.0 or higher and 10.0 or lower.

[0157] (Appendix 3) The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Appendix 1, wherein the mass average molecular weight of the polyether compound (A) is 17,000 or more and 32,000 or less.

[0158] (Appendix 4) The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Appendix 1, wherein the polyether compound (A) is formed by adding ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a tri- or tetra-ol having 3 or more but less than 12 carbon atoms.

[0159] (Appendix 5) The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Appendix 1, wherein the non-volatile components of the polyester staple fiber treatment agent contain 55% to 95% by mass of the polyether compound (A) and 5% to 45% by mass of the organophosphate ester (B).

[0160] (Appendix 6) The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Appendix 1, wherein the agent further contains an antioxidant (C).

[0161] (Appendix 7) The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Appendix 6, wherein the non-volatile component of the polyester staple fiber treatment agent contains 55% to 94% by mass of the polyether compound (A), 5% to 45% by mass of the organophosphate ester (B), and 0.1% to 5% by mass of the antioxidant (C).

[0162] (Appendix 8) A polyester staple fiber treatment agent containing the following polyether compound (A), characterized in that: the non-volatile components of the above-mentioned polyester staple fiber treatment agent contain 50% by mass or more of the above-mentioned polyether compound (A) (excluding fiber treatment agents containing 50% by mass or more of fatty acid salts having 8 to 24 carbon atoms). Polyether compound (A): formed by the addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a 1 to 18-carbon alcohol, having a mass average molecular weight of 14,000 to 32,000.

[0163] (Appendix 9) The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Appendix 8, wherein the pH of a 1% by mass aqueous solution is 7.0 or higher and 10.0 or lower.

[0164] (Appendix 10) The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Appendix 8, wherein the mass average molecular weight of the polyether compound (A) is 17,000 or more and 32,000 or less.

[0165] (Appendix 11) The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Appendix 8, wherein the polyether compound (A) is formed by adding ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a tri- or tetra-ol having 3 or more but less than 12 carbon atoms.

[0166] (Appendix 12) The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Appendix 8 further contains the following organophosphate (B). Organophosphate (B): at least one of aliphatic alcohol phosphates having 4 to 12 carbon atoms, and their salts.

[0167] (Appendix 13) The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Appendix 12, wherein the non-volatile components of the polyester staple fiber treatment agent contain 55% to 95% by mass of the polyether compound (A) and 5% to 45% by mass of the organophosphate ester (B).

[0168] (Appendix 14) The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Appendix 8, wherein the treatment agent further contains an antioxidant (C).

[0169] (Appendix 15) The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Appendix 14, wherein the non-volatile component of the polyester staple fiber treatment agent contains 94% to 99.9% by mass of the polyether compound (A) and 0.1% to 6% by mass of the antioxidant (C).

[0170] (Appendix 16) The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Appendix 12, wherein the agent further contains an antioxidant (C).

[0171] (Appendix 17) The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in Appendix 16, wherein the non-volatile component of the polyester staple fiber treatment agent contains 55% to 94% by mass of the polyether compound (A), 5% to 45% by mass of the organophosphate ester (B), and 0.1% to 5% by mass of the antioxidant (C).

[0172] (Appendix 18) A first treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, characterized in that it is used in combination with at least one of a second treatment agent and a third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, wherein the first treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains the following polyether compound (A), the second treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains the following organophosphate ester (B), and the third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains an antioxidant (C) (the mixture of the first to third treatment agents for polyester staple fibers excludes fatty acid salts containing 50% by mass or more of the number of carbon atoms from the mixture). Polyether compound (A): formed by the addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a 1- to 18-carbon alcohol, having a mass average molecular weight of 14,000 to 32,000. Organophosphate ester (B): at least one of a phosphate ester of an aliphatic alcohol having 4 to 12 carbon atoms, and its salts.

[0173] (Appendix 19) A polyester staple fiber, characterized in that: it is attached with any of the polyester staple fiber treatment agents described in any one of Appendices 1 to 17.

[0174] (Appendix 20) Polyester staple fibers as described in Appendix 19, wherein the polyester staple fibers are staple fibers used in the manufacture of filling cotton.

Claims

1. A treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, comprising a polyether compound and an organophosphate ester, characterized in that: the non-volatile component of the above-mentioned polyester staple fiber treatment agent contains 50% by mass or more of the above-mentioned polyether compound, the above-mentioned polyether compound being formed by the addition of a 1 to 18 carbon atoms to ethylene oxide and propylene oxide, the above-mentioned polyether compound having a mass average molecular weight of 14,000 to 32,000, and the above-mentioned organophosphate ester being at least one selected from phosphate esters of aliphatic alcohols having 4 to 12 carbon atoms, and their salts.

2. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in claim 1, wherein the pH of a 1% by mass aqueous solution is 7.0 or higher and 10.0 or lower.

3. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mass average molecular weight of the polyether compound is 17,000 or more and 32,000 or less.

4. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as claimed in claim 1, wherein the polyether compound is formed by the addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a tri- or tetra-ol having 3 or more but less than 12 carbon atoms.

5. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as claimed in claim 1, wherein the non-volatile component of the polyester staple fiber treatment agent contains 55% to 95% by mass of the polyether compound and 5% to 45% by mass of the organophosphate ester.

6. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as claimed in claim 1, wherein it further contains an antioxidant.

7. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as claimed in claim 6, wherein the non-volatile component of the polyester staple fiber treatment agent contains 55% to 94% by mass of the polyether compound, 5% to 45% by mass of the organophosphate ester, and 0.1% to 5% by mass of the antioxidant.

8. A treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, comprising a polyether compound, characterized in that: it does not contain 50% or more by mass of fatty acid salts having 8 to 24 carbon atoms; the non-volatile components of the above-mentioned polyester staple fiber treatment agent contain 50% or more by mass of the above-mentioned polyether compound; the above-mentioned polyether compound is formed by the addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a 1 to 18-carbon alcohol; and the mass average molecular weight of the above-mentioned polyether compound is 14,000 to 32,000.

9. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as described in claim 8, wherein a 1% by mass aqueous solution has a pH of 7.0 or higher and 10.0 or lower.

10. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as claimed in claim 8, wherein the mass average molecular weight of the polyether compound is 17,000 or more and 32,000 or less.

11. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as claimed in claim 8, wherein the polyether compound is formed by the addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a tri- or tetra-ol having 3 or more but less than 12 carbon atoms.

12. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as claimed in claim 8, further comprising an organophosphate ester, wherein the organophosphate ester is at least one selected from aliphatic alcohols having 4 to 12 carbon atoms, and their salts.

13. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as claimed in claim 12, wherein the non-volatile component of the polyester staple fiber treatment agent contains 55% to 95% by mass of the polyether compound and 5% to 45% by mass of the organophosphate ester.

14. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as claimed in claim 8, wherein it further contains an antioxidant.

15. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as claimed in claim 14, wherein the non-volatile component of the polyester staple fiber treatment agent contains 94% to 99.9% by mass of the polyether compound and 0.1% to 6% by mass of the antioxidant.

16. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as claimed in claim 12, wherein it further contains an antioxidant.

17. The polyester staple fiber treatment agent as claimed in claim 16, wherein the non-volatile component of the polyester staple fiber treatment agent contains 55% to 94% by mass of the polyether compound, 5% to 45% by mass of the organophosphate ester, and 0.1% to 5% by mass of the antioxidant.

18. A first treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, characterized in that: it is used in combination with at least one of a second treatment agent and a third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers, wherein the first treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains a polyether compound, the second treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains an organophosphate ester, the third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers contains an antioxidant, and the mixture of the first treatment agent, the second treatment agent, and the third treatment agent for polyester staple fibers does not contain 50% or more by mass of fatty acid salts having 8 to 24 carbon atoms, wherein the polyether compound is formed by the addition of ethylene oxide and propylene oxide to a 1 to 18-carbon alcohol having 3 to 18 carbon atoms, and has a mass average molecular weight of 14,000 to 32,000, and the organophosphate ester is at least one of aliphatic alcohol phosphates having 4 to 12 carbon atoms and their salts.

19. A polyester staple fiber, characterized in that: it is coated with any of the polyester staple fiber treatment agents described in claims 1 to 17.

20. The polyester staple fiber as claimed in claim 19, wherein the polyester staple fiber is a staple fiber for manufacturing filling cotton.