1. a chemical treatment process for cotton fiber or fabric using sodium hydroxide to increase strength, luster, and dye absorption
Usage: textile industry

Examples

• The cotton fabric underwent mercerization to improve its appearance and durability.
• Mercerization gives cotton thread a silk-like sheen and greater tensile strength.
• The textile mill invested in new equipment for the mercerization process.
• After mercerization, the cotton fabric absorbed dyes more evenly.
• The inventor John Mercer developed the mercerization technique in the 1840s.
• High-quality cotton shirts often benefit from mercerization treatment.