in a preferred embodiment , the present process involves subjecting a fabric having splittable conjugate yarns both to an acidic treatment and to a basic treatment , each of which erodes a portion of the components of the conjugate yarns . the acid treatment , given certain reaction kinetics , removes a portion of the polyamide element of the conjugate filament . the basic treatment has a similar effect on the polyester element of the conjugate filament , making it more hydrophilic . the at least partial removal of the polyamide component , coupled with the increased hydrophilicity of the polyester component , results in a fabric having enhanced absorptive properties . in an alternate embodiment , treatments with only acid or only basic solution may be employed .