007508   Sheikh R K;Faruqui A N (Applied Chemistry and Chemical Technology, Rajshahi Univ, Rajshahi, Bangladesh-6205) : Comparative study on dyeing behavior of modified rajshahi silk fabric with reactive orange 14, direct yellow 29 and mordant blue 9 dyes. Man Made Text India 2010, 38(10), 377-80.

Improved multi-voltine variety of Rajshahi silk fabric was dyed with Reactive Orange 14, Direct Yellow 29 and Mordant Blue 9 dyes. This fabric was degummed to remove sericin. Because sericin is soluble in hot water and highly responsible for fading color of dyed silk on washing. The color of silk fabric becomes even and bright when it was dyed with 1.5% Reactive Orange 14, 2.0% Direct Yellow 29 and Mordant Blue 9 dyes for dyeing 50-60 minutes at 80-100°C temperature. To achieve fast color silk fabric was treated with three modifying conditions prior to dyeing and among these comparatively better modifying condition was selected on the basis of color fastness on exposure to sunlight in air and wash fastness in soap solution. The modified Rajshahi silk fabric with 30% CHM₃COOH and 20% tannic acid together showed better dyeing properties than modified with other conditions and also unmodified silk fabric. Reactive Orange 14 and Direct Yellow 29 exhibit better color fastness than Mordant Blue 9 under the exposure of sunlight in air and also washing with soap solution.

6 tables, 12 ref

007507   Krishnaveni V;Amsamani S;Rajkumar G (Fashion Technology Dep, Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore) : Development of eco-friendly antimicrobial finish on cotton using Calendula officinalis (Marigold). Man Made Text India 2010, 38(10), 373-6.

A new approach is made to make the textile material antimicrobial using natural medicinal herbal extracts on cotton fabrics. The herb Marigold is available plant in Tamil Nadu, was chosen for the study. The plant extract was screened by qualitative antimicrobial test for the presence of active principles. It involves the applications of Marigold petals extracts of the plant onto cotton fabric by optimizing the process conditions-pH, time and temperature.

11 ref

007506   Jayalakshmi I;Varshitha R (Costume Design and Fshion Dep, P.S. G College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore) : Block printed organic cotton. Man Made Text India 2010, 38(10), 363-8.

Bleached woven organic cotton fabric was block printed with vegetable dyes and treated with mintage wash, crushing process and gulf voll wash to adhere strongly, improve the general appearance of the fabric and impart wrinkled effect to the organic cotton fabric. The treated organic cotton fabric was converted into garment and wear study revealed that it was comfortable during wear, without creating any irritation to the skin.

5 illus, 9 tables, 2 ref

007505   Gudhka M P;Valia S;Dixit G R (NO, , ) : Innovative fibre-rock fibre {Basalt}. Man Made Text India 2010, 38(10), 369-72.

Today significant and steady growth of around 10% in the manufacturing of composite materials is observed in the world. One of the basic reinforcing elements of composite materials are fibres. Besides reinforcing material fibrous materials are widely used as thermal applications, sound-proof and filtering materials. At present lot of emphasis is being given on the development of continuous fibre from basalt stones. Basalt is similar to carbon fibre and fibreglass in physiccal properties. It is singnificantly cheaper than carbon fibre and even having better physicomechanical properties than fibre glass. In this paper manufacturing techniques of basalt continuous filament and its applications have been reviewed.

6 ref

007504   Gauri;Goel A (NO, G.B. Pant Agriculture and Technology Univ, Pantnagar-263 145) : Textile in footwear technology. Man Made Text India 2010, 38(10), 357-62.

Textile is a very innovative sector and holds great potential for the future. Today textiles are used in every walk of life, including footwear industry. Footwear can be defined as garments that are worn on the feet. Their main purpose is protecting our feet but now footwear has become an important component of fashion accessories. Textile materials of various types are widely used in footwear industry and play very important role in perfect shoe making. Textile material made up of natural and synthetic fibres, nonwovens and in other innovative forms is specially used for making various parts of a shoe. Textile materials are more economic and more efficient way of replacing some costly traditional materials used to make footwears. Textile material is used almost in all parts of the footwear because the developments of various types of nonwoven fabric and artificial leather. Coated textile material summed up the term artificial leather competes with genuine leather in most diverse application.

2 illus, 5 tables, 13 ref

006452   Yadav A;Nachane R P;Ahmed M (NO, Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology, Adenwala Road, Matunga, Mumbai-400 019) : Effect of micronaire of cotton on wear comfort parameters of knitted fabrics. J Indian Soc Cott Improv 2009, 34(2), 107-12.

The study deals with the wear comfort parameters of knitted fabrics made by using various hybrid cottons. Physical parameters of knitted fabrics like GSM, air permeability, water vapour transportation time, water retention capacity at mean RH (82.5%) and thermal insulation values (TIV) were estimated. Analysis of data shows that air permeability increases as micronaire of cottons increases but it is inverse in water vapour transportation times. Water retention capacity of fabrics decreases as micronaire of cotton increases. No definite trend has been observed in the case of thermal insulation.

4 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

006451   Narayanan S S;Singh P (NO, CICR (ICAR), Nagpur) : Role of Indian seed industry in cotton production. J Indian Soc Cott Improv 2009, 34(2), 59-80.

Cotton is a unique textile fibre of prime importance among all fibres used in clothing, textiles and technical textiles of various kinds, besides a small proportion of production in non-spinning uses. In India about 340 Bt. cotton hybrids have approved by the government of India till May 2009 for commercial cultivation in three cotton growing zones of the country. Transgenic cotton contains bollworm resistant gene from soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis. The transgenic cotton hybrids have been developed by the private sector of Indian seed industry. In India private seed industry has played significant role in Indian economy and cotton development in five principal ways, viz. (1) development of transgenic Bt. cotton hybrids, (2) effective control of bollworms, (3) improvement in yield and production, (4) employment generation, and (5) earning foreign exchange. The private seed sector caters to the 100 per cent seed requirement of transgenic hybrids which cover more than 8 million hectares. The private seed industry in India produces Bt-transgenic hybrid seeds and distributes annually about 24.0 million packets (400g transgenic + 50g non-transgenic for use as refugea as a measure of IRM) for commercial cultivation as at present and due to changes gradually advocated in planting patterns to enhance yields, the future target may exceed 36.0 to 40.0 million packets. Bulk of these seeds are obtained by manual emasculation and cross pollination of individual flowers in commercial seed production plots raised in more than 26 to 28 thousand hectares of land scattered in 6-7 states in the country. Cotton seed production is highly rural employment-oriented with high share of women participation. These 340 transgenic hybrids have been developed by using various Bt-genes such as Cry 1 Ac (Man 531) of Monsanto (Mahyco-Monsanto) sub-licensed to more than 25 seed companies, Cry I Ac (Event-1) of JKAgri Genetics, Fusion gene (CrylAb+CrylAc GEM CrylA) of Nath-Biogenes and Cry 1 Ac +Cry2Ab MON15985 (BG-II) of Monsanto also sub-licensed to certain seed companies. The new gene technology has brought a new revolution in cotton production in India in terms of total output and yield per hectare. In this paper the role of Indian Seed Industry in cotton production, related aspects and future prospects have been discussed.

6 tables, 7 ref

006450   Mehetre S S;Nachane R P;Shaikh A J;Jagtap P K (NO, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri-413 722) : Unique combinations of high fibre length, strength and fineness in F₂ derivatives of trispecies cross of cotton (Gossypium L. spp): X-ray crystallographic study. J Indian Soc Cott Improv 2009, 34(2), 96-106.

3 tables, 79 ref

024103   Teli M D;Pal A;Roy D (Fibres and Textile Processing Technology Dep, Mumbai Univ Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai-400 019, Email: drmdteli@udct.org) : Efficacy of nonwoven materials as sound insulator. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 202-6.

Nonwoven materials of various origins have been studied in terms of their efficacy in reduction of sound using tube set-up. Various parameters, such as frequency of sound generated, distance between sound generator and sample, and physical features of samples (air permeability, thickness and GSM), are studied with reference to effectiveness of sound reduction of these fabrics. The sound reduction is also measured using another method resembling real life situation. It is observed that with the increase in frequency and GSM the extent of sound reduction increases while with the increase in air permeability, the extent of sound reduction by the material decreases. Although the extent of sound reduction values slightly differs, the order of efficacy of various nonwoven fabric samples indicated by both the techniques remains the same. This study enables the users to select an efficient material to be used in noise control.

4 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

024102   Subramanian S;Nainar M;Palanimurugan M; Muthumanickam A (Textile Technology Dep, A C College of Technology, Anna Univ, Chennai-600 025, Email: ssubbu@annauniv.edu) : Effect of jerky movement of ring rail on quality of ring yarn. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 248-50.

A device has been designed to measure the jerkiness of ring of ring frame and the effect of ring rail jerky motion on the quality of yarn studied. The results show an increase in long thin faults in the yarn due to ring rail jerk.

^ssc3 illus, 3 tables, 13 ref

024101   Subramanian S N;Venkatachalam A;Subramaniam V (Textile Technology Dep, SNS College of Technology, Coimbatore-641 035, Email: nne@vsnl.com) : Wicking behaviour of regular ring, jet ring-spun and other types of compact yarns. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 158-62.

The wicking behaviour of a series of regular ring, jet ring-spun and other types of compact yarns produced by Rocos and Elite systems has been studied. A total of 36 yarn samples with three linear densities have been produced from 100% cotton, scoured and then tested using vertical wicking test; no dye is used in the wicking studies. Compact yarns show lower wickability compared to conventional ring-spun yarns which is attributed to their greater packing density. Washburn's equation is obeyed quite well when the time constant is near 0.5. In view of the fact that the time constants for Elite and Rocos compact yarns are exceptionally higher than those of jet ring-spun yarns, these can be considered as measures of compact yarns.

4 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

024100   Shen D;Ye G (College of Mechanical Engineering, Donghua Univ, Shanghai 201620, P R China, Email: sdfdhu@163.com) : Dynamics analysis and testing in air-jet weft insertion. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 189-95.

On the basis of fluid dynamics, this paper deduces the pull force formula of main nozzle on air-jet loom and introduces a method of experiment to test the airflow velocity in the exit of nozzle. The effect of different structure parameters of main nozzle on the pull force has been studied. It is observed that the inlet of thread tube is a bottleneck of main nozzle and the main development of main nozzle lengthens the thread tube. The theoretical findings are found to be in good agreement with experimental findings and this verifies that the formula for pull force is reasonable.

9 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

024099   Samanta A K;Singhee D;Basu G;Mahalanabis K K (NO, Institute of Jute Technology, 35 Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata-700 019, Email: ijt@cal2.vsnl.in) : Hydrogen peroxide and potassium per-oxo-disulphate combined room temperature bleaching of jute, cotton and jute-cotton union fabrics-an energy-efficient ecofriendly process. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 221-31.

A method for room temperature bleaching of jute, cotton and jute-cotton union fabrics using a combination of H₂O₂ and K₂S₂O₈ has been optimized. The measurement of physical properties, such as breaking tenacity, weight loss and surface appearance, including SEM study indicates that the proposed room temperature bleaching process is less damaging to the three types of fabrics studied as compared to conventional hot (85°C) H₂O₂ bleaching. The whiteness index is within the acceptable range. The suggested reaction mechanism indicates that K₂S₂O₈ acts as a peroxide booster showing a synergistic action. This room temperature bleaching process is energy efficient, ecofriendly and economical, which can be easily adopted by both small scale and large scale sectors.

3 illus, 3 tables, 30 ref

024098   Palaniswamy N K;Shabeer Mohamed A;William Robert P (Textile Technology Dep, A C College of Technology, Anna Univ, Chennai-600 025, Email: nkpalaniswamy@yahoo.co.in) : Balanced two-ply cotton rotor yarn. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 169-72.

Ply twist required to produce balanced two-ply cotton rotor yarn has been measured by placing the two-ply yarn freely in water. When the two-ply yarns are placed freely in water, the ply twist remaining in the yarn is about 40-45 % of single yarn twist, irrespective of ply-to-single yarn twist ratio used for the production of yarn. The twist liveliness of two-ply yarns both in dry and wet states increases as the ply-to-single yarn twist ratio increases. The ply yarn with 45% of single yarn twist shows the lowest amount of snarling twist both in dry and wet states. The fabrics produced using the two-ply yarn with 45% of single yarn twist show negligible amount of spirality in both dry and wet relaxed conditions.

3 tables, 7 ref

024097   Mahish S S;Punj S K;Gagandeep Singh (NO, The Technological Institute of Textile and Sciences, Bhiwani-127 021, Email: smahish@yahoo.com) : Influence of material parameters and thermal treatment on structure and properties of polyester air-jet spun yarn. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 150-7.

The effect of thermal treatment (dry and wet) under slack conditions, blend ratio and fibre cross-section on the structure and properties of air-jet spun yarns has been studied. It is observed that the thermal treatment, particularly in wet condition, increases the linear density, helix angle, helix diameter, breaking extension and abrasion resistance and decreases the mean fibre extent, tenacity and flexural rigidity of the yarns. The increase in amount of coarser denier fibre exhibits higher helix diameter, mean fibre extent, yarn tenacity, breaking extension, abrasion resistance and flexural rigidity, and lower helix angle. The increase in trilobal fibre content in the blend shows increased helix diameter and mean fibre extent, and lower helix angle, yarn tenacity, breaking extension, abrasion resistance and flexural rigidity in the yarn.

6 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

024096   Mahesh S S;Somashekar R (Physics Dep, Vidyavardhaka College of Engineering, Mysore-570 017, Email: rs@physics.uni-mysore.ac.in) : Crystal and molecular structures of raw bivoltine silk fibre-A comparative study. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 143-9.

Crystal and molecular structural analysis of raw bivoltine silk fibre (Bombyx mori) has been made using Linked-Atom Least-Squares technique. It is observed that the unit cell consists of four molecular chains with the space unit cell parameters (a=9.4 Angstrum, &=9.2 Angstrum and c(fibre axis)=6.97Angstrum with β=90°) and the space group P2¹. The molecular modification is essentially same as β-pleated structure with antipolar-antiparallel arrangements formed by hydrogen bonds. The essential differences observed in structure, such as intermolecular distance and fractional coordinates, are discussed in detail in comparison with crystal structure of raw pure Mysore silk fibres.

4 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

024095   Lu Z J;Yang J G;Xiang Q;Wang X L (College of Mechanical Engineering, Donghua Univ, Shanghai 201620, P R China, Email: Lvzj@mail.dhu.edu.cn) : Support vector machines for predicting worsted yarn properties. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 173-8.

Support vector machines (SVMs) models have been presented for predicting worsted yarn properties using SVM regression algorithms. Model selection which amounts to search in hyper-parameter space is performed to study the suitable parameter conditions. The predictive powers of the SVM models have been estimated and the results are compared with ANN models. It is observed that under the small population circumstances, SVM models are still capable of maintaining the stability of predictive accuracy, and more suitable for noisy and dynamic spinning process.

5 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

024094   Liu L F (College of Textiles, Donghua Univ, Shanghai 201620, China, Email: flily2000@163.com) : Theoretical model on mass of soil particles passing through two-layered nonwoven geotextile. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 207-13.

A two-layered nonwoven geotextile, associated with one layer of fine fibres having a thickness selected to provide optimal filtration characteristics and another layer of coarse fibres to provide the required mechanical properties, has been developed to study its theoretical filtration performance. Based on the theoretical filtration of single layer nonwoven geotextile, a mathematical model on mass of soil passing through two-layered nonwoven geotextile is established. The model is validated by slurry test using a self-designed apparatus. The experimental results obtained for five different specimens are compared with the theoretical solution, and it is found that the present model predicts to an accuracy of about 93.2% for needle-punched two-layered nonwoven gcotextiles.

4 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

024093   Kothari V K;Das A;Singh S (Textile Technology Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Hauz Khas, New Delhi-110 016, Email: kothari_vijay@hotmail.com) : Filtration behaviour of woven and nonwoven fabrics. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 214-20.

The filtration behaviour of woven and nonwoven fabrics at different air flow rate, dust feed rate, dust loading, lime intervals and dust particles has been studied. It is observed that the pressure drop increases with the increase in airflow rate for both the woven and nonwoven filters. In general, the pressure drop in case of woven filter is found to be higher than that in case of nonwoven filter. In case of woven fabric, in general, the filiraiion efficiency and the pressure drop increase with the time interval, but the rate of increase is found to be different for different types of dust particles, i.e. the distribution of size of dust particles. The cleaning efficiency of woven filter in case of clay is found to be lowest followed by sand and Sipernat mixture. The outlet dust concentration in case of woven filter reduces with the time and in case of clay it is highest as compared to the other dust particles. In case of nonwoven filter, with the increase in air flow rate the increase in pressure drop is found to be more at constant dust loading than that at constant dust feed rate. The filtration and cleaning efficiencies of nonwoven fabric, for a certain type of dust particle, are found to be affected by the dust feed rate and the air How rate.

7 illus, 4 tables, 10 ref

024092   Kothari V K;Das A;Sarkar A (Textile Texhnology Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Hauz Khas, New Delhi-110 016, Email: kothari_vijay@hotmail.com) : Effect of processing parameters on properties of layered composite needle-punched nonwoven air filters. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 196-201.

Layered composite needle-punched nonwoven fabrics have been prepared using 6 den and 15 den polyester staple fibres separately and in 50:50 proportion and their air filtration and other associated properties studied. Processing parameter such as punch density has also been altered to investigate its effect on filtration efficiency as well as on associated properties like dimensional stability, air permeability, compression-recovery, tensile strength, abrasion resistance and friction. Filtration efficiency values show an initial rise and then subsequent fall with incremental punch densities in case of layered fabric and those made with fine fibres. In case of coarse fibre, however, the values continue to increase with punch density. The pressure drop required to maintain a certain level of flux of air through the fabrics is also not too high as that of fine fibre fabrics. Dimensional stability of fabric layered with 50:50 proportion of 6 and 15 den fibres is also found to be higher as compared to that of the fabrics of other combinations. Compression / recovery performance of layered fabric is also found to be better. All these positive attributes of the blended 6 and 15 den (50:50) layered fabrics show that the composite needle-punched fabrics will perform better as air filters.

5 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

024091   Jadhav S B;Paralikar K M (NO, Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology, Matunga, Mumbai-400 019, Email: sbjadhav3@rediffmail.com) : Optimizing the frequency of oscillating beater in double roller gin. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 184-8.

Variable speed double roller gin has been used to optimize the frequency of oscillating beater, considering three levels of oscillating frequency, namely 750, 1000 and 1250 cpm and conventional frequency of 1000 cpm. The factors considered for optimum rates include lint turn out, fibre quality and ginning rate. Overall, the fibre quality remains unaffected for all types of cottons, whereas the lint out-turn and ginning rate are found to be highest at 1250cpm frequency for long and extra long staple cottons. The conventional frequency is found to be better for short staple cottons. The short fibre content, seed coat neps and neps in the lint are comparatively less at higher frequency.

3 illus, 9 ref

024090   Imayathamizhan N M;raghunathan K (Dep of Textile Technology, A.C.College of Technology Campus, Anna University, Chennai-600 025) : Investigation on the effect of Mass of locule and mass of Kapas on quality of lint. J Indian Soc Cott Improv 2007, 32(3), 171-87.

Study was performed to reduce the variation of fibre properties of cotton within a particular fibre group to get good quality yarn and fabric. Categorizing of the locules with respect to their mass as low, medium and high after sorting them into different groups on basis of the number of kapas^b in each locule was done. Ginning was then carried out for these groups separately and the ginned fibres were tested using AFIS. It was found that the mass of the kapas^c significantly affected the length, fineness and maturity of the fibres. When seen under SEM the surface characteristics was only found to vary for different mass of kapas. The categorization of kapas with respect to their mass prior to ginning can help to achieve combed yarn quality without the combing process.

6 illus, 7 tables, 6 ref

024089   Gupta D;Bhaumik S (Textile Technology Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi-110 016, Email: deeptibgupta@gmail.com) : Antimicrobial treatments for textiles. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 254-63.

Presents a critical analysis of the various aspects of producing antimicrobial textiles. The microbes involved, their mechanism of adherence on natural and synthetic fibres, effect of microbial growth on textiles, principle and mechanism of antimicrobial activity and the compounds being used for this purpose have been covered.

^iia1 illus, 2 tables, 73 ref

024088   Ge M;Gu W;Yuan M;Li Y (School of Textile and Garments, Southern Yangtze Univ, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China 214122, Email: gemg@pub.wx.jsinfo.net) : Disc swirl spinning-A novel approach. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 179-83.

A new spinning method 'disc swirl spinning', which consists of a combing roller drafting device, funnel fibre conveyer, disc fibre collector and swirl twister, has been developed. The spinning process, the design of the mechanism and its applications have been described and a preliminary comparative performance of the yarn quality analyzed. Scanning electron microphotographs of the disc swirl core-spun yarn have been compared with those of the air-jet spun and rotor-spun yarns. It is observed that the appearance of disc swirl core-spun yarn is similar to that of rotor-spun yarn, while the inner structure of the disc swirl core-spun yarn is found similar to that of the air-jet spun yarn. The breaking strength of disc swirl core-spun yarn is little lower than that of the ring core-spun yarn, while its breaking elongation CV% is higher. The other quality parameters of the two kinds of yarn are found to be similar. The quality of the disc swirl core-spun yarn can basically meet the need of the processes.

7 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

024087   Ganesan S;Venkatachalam A;Subramaniam V (Textile Technology Dep, P S G College of Technology, Coimbatore-641 006, Email: ganesh1954s@yahoo.co.in) : Fibre migration in compact spun yarns: part II - mechanical compact yarn. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 163-8.

Fibre migration of ring and mechanical compact spun combed cotton yarns (40s Ne) has been studied using the tracer fibre technique. It is observed that the migration parameters for compact yarn made from Mechanical Compacting System (MCS)-positive nip are 10-15 % lower than that of the ring yarn and similar to that of pneumatic compact yarn of the same count. However, only a marginal reduction (2-6%) is observed in migration parameter for compact yarn made from MCS-semi-positive nip as compared to ring yarn and it is not significant. Significantly lower degree of migration is observed in mechanical compact yarn spun from MCS-positive nip than in ring yarn due to the significant reduction in size of the spinning triangle in the system and its consequence in the tension gradient. In the case of MCS-semi-positive nip, the base of the spinning triangle remaining the same, its altitude increase causes slight reduction in tension gradient, resulting in marginal change in migration parameters. Yarn diameter of mechanical compact yarn from MCS-positive nip system is found to be significantly lower than that of ring yarn and similar to pneumatic compact yarn, which contributes to increase in strength by 10-15%. The yarn from MCS-scmi-positive nip system has shown a marginal reduction in yarn diameter and hence the increase in strength is marginal (3-5%).

5 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

024086   El-Gendy E H;Ali N M;Marie M M;El-Shanshoury I A (Atomic Energy Authority, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology, P O Box 29, Nasr City, Cairo 11731, Egypt, Email: eglal_elgendy@hotmail.com) : Dyeing kinetics of radiation-grafted polyester fabric using different dayes. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 232-40.

Dyeing kinetics of radiation-grafted and ungrafted polyester fabrics using basic, direct and disperse dyes have been studied in the temperature range 283-363 K and then compared. The effects of graft yield, pH of the dye solution, dyeing time, dye concentration and dyeing temperature on the colour difference of ploy (ethylene terephthalate) fabric have been studied for basic Rhodamine Red, direct Congo Red and Disperse Red dyes. The colour difference increases rapidly with the increase in graft yield and tends to level off at higher degrees of grafting. The best dyeing conditions are achieved at pH 9, 5.5 and 5.5 for direct, basic and disperse dyes respectively. The kinetic parameters (rate, rate constant, order, activation energy and pre-exponential rate constant) have also been evaluated for the different dyes. Analysis of the kinetic parameters and dyeing mechanisms reveals that the dyeing of polyester fabric is diffusion-controlled, and the dyeing rates follow the order: basic dye (1% grafted) <62><62> direct (1% grafted) > disperse (1% grafted) > disperse (with a carrier) > disperse (without a carrier). Grafting improves significantly the dyeing affinity of polyester fabric towards basic, direct and disperse dyes.

7 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

024085   Dhurai B;Natarajan V (Textile Technology Dep, Kumaraguru College of Technology, Coimbatore-641 006, Email: bhaarathi_dhurai@yahoo.com) : Effect of enzyme softening of cotton hosiery yarns on knittability and dimensional properties of weft knitted fabrics. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 241-47.

Enzyme softening of cotton hosiery ring carded, ring combed and rotor yarns (19.68 tex) has been carried out using commercially available Bio-soft L+ acid type cellulase enzyme at optimized conditions. Knittability of enzyme-softened yarns has been studied and compared with their respective waxed yarns by measuring the actual loop length of knitted fabrics produced under different input tension and by maximum tight structure possible to knit in the given machine. It is observed that the enzyme softening improves the knittability of all three types of yarns to a significant level; the knittability of ring carded yarn improves to the level of ring combed yarn. Enzyme-softened rotor yarn shows the better knittability than enzyme-softened ring carded and combed yarns. The enzyme softening of yarn also increases the dimensional stability of single jersey fabric to a remarkable level. Among the enzyme-softened ring carded, ring combed and rotor yarns, the dimensional stability of ring combed yarn fabric is found to be very good. Changes in mass per unit area and thickness remain almost unaltered after wet relaxation treatments in case of enzyme-softened yarn fabrics.

7 tables, 11 ref

024084   Borkar S P;Senthil Kumar V;Mantha S S (Textile Manufactures Dep, Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute, Matunga, Mumbai-440 019, Email: spb_kar@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of silica and calcium carbonate fillers on the properties of woven glass fibre composites. Indian J Fibre Text Res 2007, 32(2), 251-3.

The effect of silica and calcium carbonate fillers on the properties of woven glass fibre composite has been studied with an attempt to observe the amount of property loss due to replacement of expensive resin by cheap fillers. The silica and calcium carbonate fillers of the amount 25% and 50% respectively of the weight of the resin have been used and the properties, namely tensile strength, flexural strength and impact strength, studied. It is observed that the impact and tensile strength slightly reduce but the flexural strength significantly increases.

^ssc1 illus, 3 tables, 8 ref

023078   Bal S;Behera R C (Metallurgical and Materials Engineering Dep, National Institute of Technology, Rourkela-769 008, Email: smrutisikha_bal@yahoo.com) : Analysis of structural parameters of acid and alkali treated polyster fibers using SAXS and other techniques. Indian J Engng Mater Sci 2007, 14(3), 240-52.

Analysis of structural parameters of normal and chemical (acid and alkali) treated polyester fibers has been clone using small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) technique. Average diameters have been calculated from scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs and mechanical parameters have been estimated using Instron. Further, crystallinity parameters of the same fibers have been determined using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and thermal analysis. These results supplement the findings of SAXS, SEM and Instron. Comparison and analysis of results confirm some changes in the microstructure of fiber after chemical treatment due to readjustment of macroniolecules. The findings conclude that degradation of fiber treated in strong acid is more prominent than other treated fibers. No specific changes are observed in case of sample treated in weak acid. Increase in crystalline parameters of fibers treated in weak alkali indicates cross-linking.

9 illus, 2 tables, 34 ref

022179   Poonam Singh;Chaurasia R (Family Resource Management Dep, C.S. Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur-208 002) : Working conditions and job satisfaction of leather shoe industry workers of Kanpur. Pantnagar J Res 2007, 5(2), 153-7.

Study of a leather shoe manufacturing unit at Kanpur revealed that most of the moulding workers (48%) were employed on daily wages and stitching workers (64%) on contract, with 24 per cent, under both the trades, on permanent basis. Working days per month ranged between 22-27 for 64 per cent of moulding and per cent of stitching workers followed by 19-22 for 30 and 24 per cent workers in respective trades. Working hours per day were 8.5, with a single rest interval of 30 minutes. For most of the moulding workers (88%), wages were based on duration of work and for stitching (64%) quantum of work. Reverse was true for 12 per cent moulding and 35 per cent stitching workers. All the workers worked overtime @ Rs. 9.0 per hour and received bonus. Permanent workers had the benefit of casual, earned, and medical leave and were provided with provident fund, family pension, and group insurance. Factor) premises were properly planned, kept neat, white washed annually had low humidity, sufficient light, proper ventilation, water supply and were used as work floor only. On the negative side, premises had high temperature, insufficient light for stitching, intolerable noise level, congestion and only one toilet for all the workers. Most of the moulding (60%) and stitching (50%) workers perceived their job as routine, with only 20 and 28 per cent, under respective trades, feeling satisfied. Most of them rated their management motivating (40% moulding and 30% stitehing)/satisfactory (32 and 38%) but found their remuneration, opportunities for promotion, treatment from the supervisors and working conditions below par or plain workable. Most of the workers (30% moulding and 50 per cent stitching) perceived their colleagues as responsible and some (28 and 12% under respective trades) as intelligent.

4 tables, 11 ref

022178   Mallikarjuna Rao K;Tirumala Rao V;Reddy Babu G (Civil Engineering Dep, S.V.U. College of Engg, S.V. Univ, Triupati-517 502) : Influence of a textile dye waste on properties of a clayey soil. Ultra Scient phys Sci 2007, 19(3), 385-96.

Influence of industrial effluents on soil, water, and air has been the subject matter of several researchers. This investigation aims at studying the influence of spent orange dye effluent from a Textile industry on a clayey soil. The soil is mixed with spent orange dye effluent and tested for Index properties and Engineering properties after varying curing periods. Influence of each component of dye effluent on soil is ascertained by another series of tests by mixing it with soil. The dye effluent and its constituents are found to induce cementation/bonding and flocculation to the soil resulting in improved engineering properties. X - Ray-diffraction studies reveal that the clay minerals present in the soil react actively with dye effluent. The observed changes are explained in terms of changes brought out in chemical environment of pore fluid. pH and physico - chemical interactions between soil particles and particle groups.

13 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

021130   Vastrad J V;Naik S D (Textiles and Apparel Designing Dep, College of Rural Home Science, UAS, Dharwad 580 005, Email: profshailajanaik@yahoo.co.in) : Throw shuttle weaving of Ambasi panje (lungi). Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 70-3.

Dhoti or the waistcloth of men is a scanty piece of cloth fastened round the waist, its ends being carried tightly between the two legs to the back and tucked. The dhoti or the lungi worn casually or as a daily wear gained its popularity when woven with a contrast border using traditional motifs. One among such traditionally produced made-ups is the contrast-bordered lungi, locally famous as Ambasi phadiki dhadi panje woven at the village, Lakkundi. The off-white lungi has contrast borders on either sides with rudraksha and chrysanthemum motifs and was woven on the throw shuttle pit loom during 1916 and even before. Weaving process of the same that gave rise to various contrast bordered made-ups is discussed here under.

021129   Teron R (Botany Dep, Diphu Government College, Diphu-782462, Email: robindra_teron@yahoo.co.in) : Traditional woodcraft, Jambili Athon of the Karbis. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 103-7.

Jambili Athon is an extraordinary woodcraft of the Karbis, made entirely from Bengwoi ke-er (Wrightia coccinea Sims. (Apocynaceae), whose origin and making of the craft is strictly based on legends. It consists of a central axis and a whorl of four branches, all with beautiful carvings on it and the apices are perched with different species of birds. Jambili Athon is exhibited during socio-religio-cultural festival, Chomkan, during crowning ceremony of social chief, the Lindokpo and also to honour great persons. Jambili Athon has no parallel with any crafts or symbols of other tribes of Northeast India and is claimed as the symbol of pride and cultural identity by Karbis. It covers the philosophy of life & death, social institutions and religious practices of the people. Further, Jambili Athon is often used in logos of many institutions and organizations in Karbi Anglong and also as designs on textiles. A miniature Jambili Athon is usually kept as an artifact in almost every household.

021128   Tepper L (NO, Canadian Museum of Civilization, 100 Laurier St, PO Box 3100, Station B, Gatineau, Quebec J8H 4H2, Canada, Email: leslie.tepper@civilization.ca) : Coast Salish weaving-Preserving traditional knowledge with new technology. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 188-96.

Hand made textiles are an important source of traditional knowledge. Infused with symbolic and ritual meaning they can serve as a conduit of cultural information. During times of rapid social change, transmission of both the technology and symbolic content of these textiles is difficult to maintain. Among the Coast Salish weavers of Canada's Northwest Coast, efforts to preserve their weaving heritage have now incorporated multimedia technology for the teaching of traditional knowledge. The paper explores the recent partnership of the Canadian Museum of Civilization and Coast Salish weavers to develop a new working tool.

021127   Tag H;Das A K;Pallabi H;Singh R K;Palit G (Higher Plant Systematic and Ethnomedicine Div, Botany Dep, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Itanagar-791112, Email: huitag@yahoo.co.in ) : Botanical resources used in traditional wood carving industry among the Wancho tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 148-56.

Traditional woodcarving system is quite popular among the Wancho tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. The art and skills of wood carving practiced among the Wancho community is closely associated with their age-old religious beliefs and cultural practices, which are evident through their traditional institutions in the form of Morung (Bachelor dormitory), funeral rites, fertility cult and human head hunting. Unfortunately, the traditional art of wood carving among the Wancho has suffered a set back in recent decades. As a result, local artisans, who solely depend on woodcarving industry for the sustenance of their livelihood, are in dwindling position. However, Government initiative at community level somehow rescuing the degrading art but concerted effort is still needed to make the industry traditionally reliable and economically sustainable. The paper discuss the role of botanical resources used in woodcarving industry of Wancho and attempt has been made to highlight status of botanical species of Wancho locality emphasized on cultural knowledge of wood carving, commercial prospect and role of traditional knowledge in conservation of botanical resources associated with local woodcarving industry. In all, 12 plant species has been reported to be used in local woodcarving industry in Wancho dominated region of Tirap district of Arunachal Pradesh.

021126   Srivastava S K;Tewari J P;Shukla D S (Botany Dep, MLK (PG) College, Balrampur-271201) : Folk dye from leaves and stem of Jatropha curcas L. used by Tharu tribes of Devipatan division. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 77-8.

The leaves and stem of Jatropha curcas L. (physicnuts) can be used as a natural source of dye was noticed from Tharu villagers of Devipatan division. The colouring matter was extracted from leaves and stems by boiling in water. The extract was evaporated to dryness. The extracted matter was used to dye cotton yarn using different methods. The dyed cotton yarn was tested for its fastness and other properties. It was found superior to synthetic chemical dyes.

021125   Singh A;Singh R K (Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi-221 005, Email: ranjay_jbp@rediffmail.com) : Gekong-Galong-Traditional weaving technology of Adi tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 87-92.

The women living in remote areas and dependent on traditional resources have developed appreciating knowledge and skill in weaving and making crafts for their subsistence livelihood in mountain ecosystems. In modernization and rapid acculturation process, this culturally important heritage of women is at risk and eroding. Varieties of culturally and traditionally important dresses are weaved by Adi women. Women are competent in selecting diverse plant biodiversity used in making entire set of gekong-galong (handloom), which requires years of experience. The culture, belief and spiritual aspects are intrinsically attached with weaving technology. Various sources are utilized in making and using thread for weaving like silkworm, indigenous cotton varieties and mechanically made thread available in market. In remote social system, women use local bioresources in preparing the dye and colours. Weaving is one of the major traditional sources of income and livelihood, but younger generation does not show considerable interest in learning and continuing such culturally important practices. A mission mode integrated effort would be required to conserve women wisdom of weaving and making this profession economically viable through value addition, entrepreneurship development, chaining market and economic empowerment. Traditional weaving and related knowledge systems of purposively selected villages of Padam, Pasi and Minyong subtribes of Adi community Arunachal Pradesh are discussed.

021124   Sharma N;Kanwar P;Rekha A (Home Science Extension Education Dep, College of Home Science, CSKHPKV, Palampur-1760 62, Email: promilak@hillagic.ernet.in) : Traditional handicrafts and handloom of Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 56-61.

Handloom weaving and handicraft are the cultural heritage of the Himachali people and an indispensable part of the lives of Kulluites. The activity of preparing a vide range of handloom and handicraft products was originated to suffice local needs but it gradually took a turn towards commercialization. In the study, handloom and handicrafts of district Kullu of Himachal Pradesh have been presented. The local weavers besides following their ancestral traditions and skills are intentionally making some alterations in the designs and motifs to cater to the needs of modern buyers. The various handloom and handicraft items of the Kullu district include shawls, caps, borders, pattoo, muffler, patti, thobi, numdha, gudma, hand knit woolens, kilta, patari, etc. which have been described in detail.

021123   Sengupta S;Debnath S;Bhattacharyya G K (NO, National Institute of Research on Jute & Allied Fibre Technology, 12, Regent Park, Kolkata-700 040, Email: ssg_42@rediffmail.com ) : Development of handloom for jute based diversified fabrics modifying traditional cotton handloom. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 204-7.

Handloom is a traditional technology to produce specialty fabrics as well as ordinary fabrics in the rural and semi-urban areas scattered throughout India. In the present context, though the share of handloom industry has been drastically fallen due to advancement in power driven large scale sectors, this is one of the major decentralised small scale industry till today. West Bengal is traditionally rich in both cotton handloom and jute yarn making by its technology and availability. During weaving of jute and jute blended yarn in cotton handloom, the weavers have faced a lot of difficulties mainly due to coarseness and roughness of jute fibre. In the paper, some modifications in the traditional frame type cotton handloom have been discussed so that jute and jute blended yarns can be woven successfully for decorative, upholstery, furnishing and even for outer part of the apparel.

021122   Sanapapamma K J;Naik S D (Textiles and Apparel Designing Dep, College of Rural Home Science, UAS, Dharwad-580 005) : Contemporary breakthrough in Ahimsa silk spinning. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 178-81.

Karnataka is the premier mulberry silk producing state in India, contributing nearly 73% of the country's total production. Around 764 drainages distributed in different parts of Karnataka cater to the seed requirement of the Seri culturist. During drainages operation moths emerges out by piercing the cocoons thus become unreelable. Such cocoons amount to about 240 tons per year, hence proper utilization of these cocoons is of utmost importance for product diversification. The silk spun from pierced cocoon without letting pupae to die considered as Ahimsa silk is widely accepted by Hindus. Ahimsa silk spun on traditional devices viz., Takli, NR Das, Chuodhary Charaka and Medleri Charakas, did not produce regular tpi though the production was less. Hence, there was need to develop appropriate technology to spin quality spun silk. The CSTRI, Bangalore realized the necessity and to develop the improvised "Motorized Spinning cum Twisting Machine'', a real break through in silk spinning. This machine was perfectly suitable to spin unreelable silk to 30-35s and the production rate ranged to 100-40g/8 hrs, which exhibited greater tenacity with remarkable elongation.

021121   Raja A S M;Shakyawar D B;Parthsarthy S (Textile Technology Dep, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore 4, Tamil Nadu; 2Southern Regional Research Center, Central Sheep & Wool Research Institute, Mannavanur-624103, Email: asmraja16475@yahoo.com) : Manufacturing of blanket (Kambali) by traditional methods using Coimbatore sheep wool at Kalangal Village. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 79-82.

Since ancient time, the manufacturing of textile goods has been carried out in India using indigenously produced natural fibres, i.e. wool, silk, ramie, etc. by rural artisans. Although, the techniques used in manufacturing such goods are labour intensive, which makes products costly. These processes are eco-friendly and provide large employment to rural artisans. Apart from this, the products possess good hand and have much acceptance among users. Among the various textile products produced using traditional knowledge, manufacturing of blanket using indigenous traditional knowledge of yarn spinning and blanket weaving from Coimbatore wool is one of the products, which is unique in construction and performance. In the paper, detailed information on availability of wool, its quality, processing technique, conversion of wool fibre into yarn, then yarn to blanket.

021120   Postsangbam L;Ningombam S;Laitonjam W S (Chemistry Dep, Manipur University, Canchipur-795 003, Email: warjeet@yahoo.com) : Natural dye yielding plants and indigenous knowledge of dyeing in Manipur, Northeast India. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 141-7.

The people of Manipur, which lies under the Indo-Burmese region, have been using indigenous dyestuffs from plants since time immemorial, in handicrafts, handlooms, fine arts, etc. There are more than 50 plants species in Manipur, which are used as dyes right from ancient times, before chemical dyes were introduced in the state. Strobilanthus flaccidifolius is one such plants being traditionally used by the people of the state for preparing dye. Many tribes and Meitei community of Manipur have been using species like Parkia javanica, Melastoma malabathricum, Pasania pachyphylla, Solanum incidum, Bixa orellana, Tectona grandis, etc. The Maring tribes still uses the fruit of Melastoma malabathricum for staining teeth in dark blackish red; it strengthens the teeth and protects from gum diseases and cavities. These plants are used traditionally in combination with other plants for extraction and preparation of dyes utilizing indigenous processes. The compounds isolated from these dye yielding plants and the indigenous knowledge on dye preparation in Manipur is reported.

021119   Namrata M;Naik S D (Textiles and Apparel Designing Dep, College of Rural Home science, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad-580 005, Email: profshailajanaik@yahoo.co.in) : Contemporized traditional textile made-ups-a mode for rural and urban linkage. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 208-11.

Traditional hand woven khana material is the choli or blouse material with extra warp dobby figures, which is from rural parts of northern Karnataka. There was a great need for diversification of its utility to suit the contemporary urban consumers. Therefore, the researcher has put forth the efforts in designing variety of elegant diwan sets, viz. block, crazy, log cabin, mosaic and tucked patch worked bed linens and has selected this mode for linking submerged rural art to the cosmopolitan urban customers. These newly designed diwan sets made of traditional hand woven khana material embellished with tribal hand embroideries will become the latest fashions to suit the trendy market and will further open a new vista for khana material to be used in home textiles.

021118   Naik S D;Vastrad J V (Textiles and Apparel Designing Dep, College of Rural Home Science, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad-580005, ) : Protection and revival of traditional hand embroidery, Kasuti by automation. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 197-203.

The handloom industry is highly labour oriented, having legacy of unrivalled craftsmanship. Handloom goods are no longer the choice of poor alone, but a weakness for the elite in India and abroad. Ethnic designs woven in brilliant coloured fabrics bear a distinct seal of magnificent, magical and traditional artistry of Indian weavers and bear their own regional identity. One among such exclusivity is the polycotton sari with contrast border having demand not only in India but also in the international markets especially when embellished with the traditional hand embroidery of Karnataka, Kasuti. Of the four stitches in kasuti, negi is rarely used by the embroiderers since it involve lot of skill, patience, expertise and intricacy. To achieve the embroidery, almost parallel to the interlacement of warp-weft is very difficult by the commercial embroiderers of today. Hence, many professional do not adopt negi stitch and hence this stitch of kasuti is unnoticingly going extinct. Explains the efforts made to revive and preserve the traditional negi motifs by way of computerizing and mechanizing.

021117   Naik S D (Textiles and Apparel Designing Dep, College of RHSc, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad-580 005, Email: profshailajanaik@yahoo.co.in) : Snippets renewed into fabulous quilts. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 83-6.

Quilting is centuries old form of stitchery. A quilt is, basically, a textile sandwich with a fabric cover on the top and bottom and the batting inside. Exciting and challenging contemporary quilts, whether stitched by hand or machine, now complements the enduring traditional designs and techniques that have evolved over the years. Patchwork, appliqu‚ work and quilting can be very efficiently applied to enhance the appearance of many home furnishings. Synthetic batting that comes in several weights, is versatile as it can be laundered, making it suitable for bed linen such as throws and quilts.

021116   Mukherjee A;Mitra A (Textile Section, Silpa-Sadana, PSV, Visva-Bharati, PO Sriniketan-731 236, District Birbhum, West Bengal, Email: a_mitra2005@yahoo.com) : On-loom finishing of handloom products - an innovative & indigenous approach. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 172-7.

In big sectors, finishing of textiles is not a matter of problem as the machines for this purpose can be fed with long length of fabrics. But the usual finishing techniques practiced in mill sectors can not be adopted in handloom sectors, because the products here are in the form of piece goods. In Fulia, Shantipur, Nabadweep and some other reputed handloom sectors of West Bengal, the weavers are found to apply size paste made of sago or starch mainly on saris and silk thans by hand on-looms (while weaving) only. But door curtains, towels, bed covers and many other handloom products are sold in the market without any finish. Many finishing can be developed on handloom products also by applying hand spraying system by the use of different softeners, stiffeners, glazers, etc. as required by the end-users, to make them more beautiful, attractive, lustrous and market competitive. In the paper, an innovative and indigenous approach has been made on trial basis for on-loom application of finish on handloom goods, and it has been proved by doing some simple testing that this indigenous approach is both technically and economically feasible not only for piece goods, but also for bulk application provided some other accessories like cottage level finishing chamber/steamer, ceiling fan, drier, etc. can be arranged. The products requiring this type of finishing treatments should not be hot pressed or ironed in any stage, otherwise the inherent fullness of the handloom goods will be adversely affected.

021115   Mokrejs P;Sukop S;Langmaier F;Kolomaznik K; Mladek M (Protein and Leather Dep, Faculty of Technology, Tomas Bata Univ, Nam, TGM 275, 762 72 Zlin, The Czech Republic, Email: mokrejs@ft.utb.cz) : Properties of collagen hydrolyzates obtained from leather shavings. Asian J Chem 2007, 19(2), 1207-16.

Hydrolyzates are low-molecular products obtained in the second stage of enzymatic hydrolysis of chrome-tanned leather shavings. It is necessary to know thermal properties of hydrolyzates, gels and films for their intended industrial applications, especially when processing them into packing materials. The object of the presented work is study of thermal properties of powdery hydrolyzates, gels of hydrolyzates prepared from 40% (w/w) solutions and films of hydrolyzates, prepared from 12.5% (w/w) solutions with/without adding plasticizer (glycerin). Thermal properties (glass transition temperature, melting point of gels and melting point of films) were determined employing different scanning calorimetry and thermo mechanical analyzer.

9 illus, 5 tables, 17 ref

021114   Mohammad K;Haghi A K (Textile Chemistry Dep, The Univ of Guilan, P.O. Box-3756, Rasht, Iran, Email: Haghi@guilan.ac.ir) : Destruction of electron radiation on the appearance of microwave dried fibers. Asian J Chem 2007, 19(2), 1277-82.

Influences of electron radiation on the appearance of microwave-dried fibers were studied. Previously dried fibers with different properties are radiated by electron beam of electron microscope. Variable magnifications, processing time and voltage are applied. Using electron microscopy photographs, fibers inflations or deflations are measured precisely. It is observed that the electron energy can have significant effects on the fibers surface layer properties.

11 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

021113   Lookose S (NO, Teak Museum, KFRI Sub-Centre, Nilambur, Kerala, Email: sani_lookose@yahoo.co.in) : Traditional teak wood articles used in households of Nilambur and Malapuram areas of Kerala. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 108-11.

The heartwood of teak is one of the most durable woods and used in structural needs like furniture making, ship building and even for the construction of railway sleepers in the olden days. But the use of teak in traditional households is totally neglected today due to the wide use of metals and other synthetic materials like plastic. Traditional teak wood household articles used in Nilambur and Malappuram areas of Kerala have been described. Lack of social awareness on these traditional teak wood articles and the importance of transferring this knowledge to younger generations have been emphasized.

021112   Kurup K K N (NO, Centre for Heritage Studies, Department of Cultural Affairs, Governmen, Hill Palace, Thripunithura-682 301, Email: kknkurup@hotmail.com) : Traditional handloom industry of Kerala. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(1), 50-2.

Describes the traditional handloom industry of Kerala. The Padma Saliyas community in Kerala used spinning and weaving aspects of textile production. Two sects of caste, Idankai and Valankai represented spinners and weavers, respectively. Native craftsmen of Kerala, produced items like, Mundu, Thorthu, Veshti and Pudava through the handlooms. In Kerala, even now the hand woven clothes known for their durability, finishing, charming colours and smoothness. The traditional pit looms are almost disappeared in favour of wooden framed looms as a matter of technological change. Further from the cottage industry, it has changed into the factory pattern also.