Abstract: The present invention is based on the realization that improved wicking of liquid from an inner face to an outer face of a fabric can be achieved by a fabric structure where the inner face of the fabric has a substantially uniform hydrophobicity and where the inner face is formed by hydrophobic yarn that is assembled in a manner that allows the liquid to penetrate between hydrophobic yarn and make contact with hydrophilic yarn that forms at least part of the outer face of the fabric. When liquid penetrates the inner face and makes contact with the hydrophilic yarn, liquid is able to be drawn through the inner face to the outer face of the fabric. Although the hydrophobic and hydrophilic yarns and may be made from any one or a blend of man-made or synthetic fibers, and natural fibers, it is preferred that the yarns and the fully formed fabric be made entirely of cotton fibers. The fabric is suitable for use in a wide range of applications including underwear.

Abstract: A process for mercerising unconstrained cellulosic fibres comprises transporting the fibres along a transit path through a mercerising zone in which the fibres are contacted with a mercerising liquid, followed by a rinsing zone, in which the fibres are rinsed, wherein the unconstrained cellulosic fibres are held to prevent longitudinal shrinkage during transportation through both zones. The fibres, such as cotton fibres in sliver form, may be held by being pressed between a pair of belts through the zones. Apparatus for conducting the process contains a mercerising zone and a rinsing zone, and a conveyor comprising a pair of surfaces such as belt surfaces for holding the fibres to prevent shrinkage. The belts may be slightly elastic and under tension to slightly stretch the fibres. The belts wind around rollers separated a short distance apart to maintain tension on the belt and on the fibres therebetween.

Abstract: A method of applying dye to keratin fibres comprises pretreating the fibres by contacting them with an alkaline solution of an amphoteric surfactant, and thereafter applying dye to the pretreated fibres from a dyeing solution substantially deficient of surfactant-type levelling agents. Also disclosed is a novel surfactant compound comprising an alkoxylated hydroxysulphobetaine of formula: ##STR1## where: R.sub.1 is a hydrocarbon group selected from the range C.sub.12 H.sub.25 up to C.sub.21 H.sub.43 ; andR.sub.2 and R.sub.3 are poly(alkylene oxide) groups, each having n alkylene oxide units, where 3.ltoreq.n.ltoreq.21.In another aspect, there is disclosed a method of applying dye to keratin fibres comprising contacting the fibres with a bath liquor comprising an alkaline solution of the above surfactant, and thereafter adding dye to the bath liquor and applying the dye to the fibres from the bath liquor.