Development of antimicrobial and water repellent/ hydrophobic (easy-cleaning) properties on cotton fabrics using nanocoating processes

Abstract

Recently, there has been considerable interest in doing research and development on functional nano coated textiles and in creating innovative textile products. Studies have been continued for developing innovative high value-added textile products with antimicrobial, hydrophobic (water and stain repellent), hydrophilic “easy-cleaning” and UV resistant properties. The aim of this work is to impart antimicrobial and hydrophobic properties to raw cotton fabrics via functional nano coating processing techniques. Nano silver particles synthesized from silver nitrate (AgNO3) and sodium citrate (Na3C6H5O7) are impregnated into raw cotton fabrics to develop antimicrobial properties. To investigate the antimicrobial activity of the treated cotton fabric, E. Coli bacteria tests have been performed. Coating the raw cotton fabric with methyltriethoxysilane (CH3Si(OC2H5)3), phenyltrimethoxysilane (C6H5Si(OCH3)3), and alcosols synthesized from these two compounds using sol gel techniques, produced hydrophobic surfaces. Contact angle measurements and easy-cleaning tests are performed on these surfaces.