Abstract: A method for removing color and extracting dyes from ionically dyeable polymeric materials is provided. The method includes contacting the ionically dyeable polymeric material with a swelling agent for the material under conditions sufficient to effect diffusion of the dye from the material. The process is especially useful for removing colors from ionically dyeable polymeric materials as part of a recycling process for such materials. Also, the extracted dye may be recovered for re-use as the swelling agent and contacting composition are substantially non-reactive with the dye.

Abstract: A process for recycling colored polyamide material comprises the steps of (a) contacting solid colored polyamide material with an organic solvent composition at a temperature effective to dissolve the polyamide, thereby forming a solution containing colorant and dissolved polyamide; and (b) separating colorant from the polyamide. The process can optionally further comprise the step of recovering the colorant, recovering the polyamide, or recovering both the polymer and colorant. The organic solvent composition preferably is selected from the group consisting of aliphatic and aromatic ketones, aliphatic and aromatic alcohols, diols, water, and combinations thereof. Solvent compositions comprising at least one alcohol selected from the group consisting of butanediol, butanol, ethanol, and benzyl alcohol are preferred, such as aqueous solutions of 1-butanol or ethanol.

Abstract: A process for coating carpets with fluorochemical emulsions is disclosed. The process comprises treating the fabric with a fluorochemical emulsion then heating, rinsing and, finally, drying the treated fabric. The process is characterized in that the emulsion has a pH and divalent metal ion concentration sufficient to effect transfer of the fluorochemical from the emulsion to the carpet during the heating step.

Abstract: Carpets having a primary backing and a pile consisting essentially of polyamide fibers stitched into the primary backing are described. The fibers are characterized in being stain resistant and the backing is characterized in being impervious to water. The carpet is easy to maintain since its fibers are stain resistant and water can be used to clean the carpet without fear of the water penetrating the backing and being absorbed by the padding, a situation which leads to rotting of the carpet and wooden floors.