Methods for Controlling Color During a Metallization Process and Resulting Products

Abstract

System and methods that enables fabric to be metalized and dyed to reach final colors that were previously unobtainable. The systems and methods relate to processes for controlling the color of metalized fabrics. Specifically, for some embodiments, the systems and methods relate to methods of making metalized fabrics that are lighter in color than prior metalized fabrics. Such fabrics may be printed on or dyed using lighter colors than would be possible when using prior metalized fabrics. The systems and methods herein may include dye baths and wash baths that are hotter than prior art processes.

1 . A system for dying and metalizing fabric, the system comprising:
 a dye bath maintained at a first predetermined temperature;   a washing bath maintained at a second predetermined temperature different from the first predetermined temperature;   wherein a base fabric is dyed and at least a portion of the base fabric is metalized within the dye bath; and   wherein the base fabric is washed in the washing bath.   
     
     
         2 . The system of  claim 1 , wherein the first predetermined temperature is about 23° C. or greater. 
     
     
         3 . The system of  claim 2 , wherein the second predetermined temperature is about 70° C. or greater. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the first predetermined temperature is about 25° C. or greater. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 4 , wherein the second predetermined temperature is about 70° C. or greater. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the first predetermined temperature is in a range of about 30° C. to about 40° C. 
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 6 , wherein the second predetermined temperature is about 70° C. or greater. 
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the second predetermined temperature is about 70° C. or greater.