Bensize b-55 is a chemically modified industrial starch derived from tapioca. It is a low viscosity "thin boiling'' starch particularly developed for the textile industry's partial replacement of polyvinyl alcohol in warp sizing. The cost of bensize b-55 is a fraction of polyvinyl alcohols. Therefore, by replacing 25 % to 30 % of polyvinyl alcohol with bensize b-55 a substantial cost savings can be obtained. In achieving this cost saving the weaving efficiency is not sacrificed. Yarns sized with a blend of 40% bensize b-55 and 60% polyvinyl alcohol obtain weaving efficiencies equivalent to those achieved with 100% polyvinyl alcohol . A solution of bensize b-55 has(1) a shorter cooking time, (2) higher fludidity, (3) increased adhesiveness, (4) superior flexibility, (5) lower rate of congealing and (6) gives a much clearer, transparent flexible film than the parent tapioca starch.
