<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?><!DOCTYPE Zthes SYSTEM "http://zthes.z3950.org/xml/zthes-05.dtd">  <Zthes><term><termId>31422045</termId><termName>mercerizing machines</termName><termType>PT</termType><termNote><![CDATA[ Mechanized devices, typically comprising an automated range of stenter chains for tension control, designed to facilitate the application of a caustic soda chemical treatment on cotton fabrics to prepare the fabrics for subsequent dying and chemical finishes. By providing a temperature and tension controlled surface upon which the wet textile process of mercanization is carried out, these devices give fabrics a lustrey finish, increased tensile strength, and greater absorptive properties, creating a foundation for finishing treatments.  ]]></termNote><termCreatedDate>2026-03-30 20:53:45</termCreatedDate><relation><relationType>UF</relationType><termId>31422046</termId><termName>mercerizing machine</termName><termType>ND</termType></relation><relation><relationType>BT</relationType><termId>31422254</termId><termName>textile machines</termName><termType>PT</termType></relation></term>  </Zthes>