Abstract: Disclosed is a polymer additive composition and solution of the additive having more than about 5 w % solubility in a mixture of water and water soluble organic compounds comprising: a substantially water insoluble polymer additive capable of forming a salt, the polymer additive having less than about 1 w % water solubility, and a counterpart salt forming species. A process for using these polymer additive compositions and solutions is disclosed wherein the additive or the additive solution is added prior to or optionally during or optional after a polymerisation process to form polyamides or polyesters.

Abstract: A polyamide composition, which includes an optical brightener together with either an antimicrobial agent or anti-oxidant stabilizer, or both, is suitable for making yarns, and fabrics, garments, molded articles or other articles such as carpets from these yarns. Processes for incorporating optical brighteners into polyamide compositions, polymers and yarns to make fabrics and molded articles that exhibit superior whiteness after heat-setting are also disclosed.