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A benign synergism of O 2 plasma and protein biopolymer for improving some properties of polyester fabrics
The Journal of The Textile Institute
... Alternative treatments with less profound effects on the mechanical properties of PET are enzymatic treatment and plasma treatments; they are also accepted as environmentally friendly techniques for improving moisture absorption of PET fibers [14][15][16][17]. ...
This study aims at the modification of the surface properties of twill-5 polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabric, in particular to improve its hydrophilicity. It compares the hydrophilic potential and efficacy of two vinyl monomers radically grafted onto the fabric by photoinduced processes. Poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) and [2-(methacryloyloxy)-ethyl]-trimethylammonium chloride (METAC) affected the wettability of the fabric towards water, significantly reducing the water contact angle (WCA). As a consequence, the treated fabrics showed a good improvement of dynamic moisture management. Adopting specific conditions (e.g., type of monomer and grafting monomer concentration), the grafted PET fabrics remained hydrophilic after washing, laudering, dry cleaning, and rubbing tests; thus, the surface treatment modification resulted to be durable overall.
The textile industry is increasingly adopting cutting-edge technologies for dyeing polyester fabrics, driven by the need for enhanced color vibrancy and durability. Polyester, a synthetic polymer made primarily of terephthalic acid and a diol, presents distinct challenges in dyeing due to its hydrophobic nature and lack of reactive sites. This review introduces novel approaches for overcoming these challenges by examining the dyeing of polyester fibers with both ionic and nonionic dyes, with a particular focus on advanced surface modification techniques such as plasma treatment, ultrasonic waves, ozone exposure, and chitosan application. These innovative methods introduce reactive functional groups to the polyester surface, significantly improving its affinity for ionic dyes, which offer superior reactivity and color stability compared with nonionic dyes. While prior research has explored dyeing strategies for polyester, a comprehensive review specifically addressing the use of ionic and nonionic dyes alongside surface modification technologies remains rare. This paper highlights new insights into the mechanisms of dye–fiber interactions, emphasizing how surface treatments can enhance dye uptake, improve light fastness, and enable more vibrant and durable shades. This review further discusses the interplay between functional groups on polyester fibers and ionic dyes, proposing that integrating both dye types can optimize both aesthetic and functional properties in polyester textile applications. The novel contribution of this study lies in its detailed exploration of how surface modifications can be tailored to enable a broader and more effective range of dyeing options, leading to advancements in the coloration of polyester textiles.
This paper reports on an experimental investigation of thermophysiological and psychological responses during and after an incremental low- to high-intensity exercise at 27 °C and 45% humidity. Five t-shirt garments were produced from different yarn types, their weights and yarn counts were close to each other. During the wear trials, heat and humidity sensors were placed at four body locations (the chest, back, abdomen, and waist). In addition, dynamic comfort measurements of the upper body were examined using a datalogger and subjective rating scales. This study aimed to investigate the effects of garment type on aerobic performance, microclimate temperature and humidity values, and psychological comfort. It was observed that the relative humidity and temperature of the microclimate were low in fabrics with high air permeability and low thermal resistance values of the Tencel single jersey and polyester mesh knitted fabrics. There was a significant difference in microclimate temperature results of TS coded Tencel single jersey t-shirt sample and other t-shirt samples according to statistical analysis results. On the other hand, the statistical results of the PM coded fabric sample measured at lower humidity in the three body regions were found to be a significantly different from those of the other samples (except TS). Although not statistically significant, the VO2 values and heart rates of these fabrics were lower than those of other fabrics. It was concluded that garments made from Tencel single jersey (TS) and polyester mesh (PM) fabrics affected the performance of athletes positively. Athletes were less forced during the training, and the activity could be maintained more than the others when wearing these clothes.
Development and useful utilization of materials from agricultural wastes and biomass feedstock for the textile-finishing industry is of great significance to the research community worldwide. In this work, a sustainable and green chitosan and waste onion peel extract (CS-OS) composite material is prepared by the co-precipitation method and applied onto cotton fabrics for the development of antibacterial and radical-scavenging textiles. The composite was loaded onto cotton with and without citric acid as a cross-linker to obtain final textile substrate with durable functions. The composite formation and the coated cotton fabrics were examined using SEM, FT-IR, and TGA techniques. Antioxidant activity of the finished fabrics was evaluated using the DPPH assay, and antibacterial tests were performed using the colony counting method. The results revealed that composite-treated cotton showed good radical-scavenging and antibacterial activities. It was found that citric acid-cross-linked cotton fabrics displayed enhanced antibacterial and antioxidant properties.
This article review is devoted to throw the light on the unique characteristics of keratin- and sericin-based electro-spun nanofibers which make them suitable for various applications in different fields. The principles of electro-spinning together with the various devices usually used to fabricate nanofibers are also highlighted. The chemistry of keratin and sericin bio-polymers and the methods of extraction from their respective natural resources, such as wool and natural silk fibers, were criticized. Blending of keratin or sericin with various natural and synthetic polymeric materials to improve their rheological properties to obtain electro-spinnable composite suitable for production of functional nano-fibrous mat was discussed. Incorporation of nanosized metals and metal oxides as well as bioactive materials into keratin and sericin-based electro-spun nanofibers imparts new functions to the produced nanofibres. The utilization of these functional nano-fibrous mats in biomedical, filtration and smart textile applications was illustrated. The current status and future prospects of the electro-spun nanofibers were highlighted.
In this work, the characteristic structure of keratin extracted from two different kinds of industrial waste, namely sheep wool and chicken feathers, using the sulfitolysis method to allow film deposition, has been investigated. The structural and microscopic properties have been studied by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and infrared (IR) spectroscopy. Following this, small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) analysis for intermediate filaments has been performed. The results indicate that the assembly character of the fiber can be obtained by using the most suitable extraction method, to respond to hydration, thermal, and redox agents. The amorphous part of the fiber and medium range structure is variously affected by the competition between polar bonds (reversible hydrogen bonds) and disulfide bonds (DB), the covalent irreversible ones, and has been investigated by using fine structural methods such as Raman and SAXS, which have depicted in detail the intermediate filaments of keratin from the two different animal origins. The preservation of the secondary structure of the protein obtained does offer a potential for further application of the waste-obtained keratin in polymer films and, possibly, biocomposites.
Crossbred wool is widely used in the textile and clothing fields. Nevertheless, the surface roughness of crossbred wool fabric is higher than that of Merino wool. Herein we propose a reactive nonionic softener (RNS) based on fatty acid (FA) and 2-amino-2-methyl propane diol (AMPD) to impart desirable multi-functions for crossbred wool fabric, such as improved smoothness, enhanced wettability, and induced resistance to felting shrinkage. Adopting the pad-dry-cure method, treatment of wool with the said softener was carried out using different concentrations of FA/AMPD condensate at different curing temperatures and durations. The results showed that the highest fabric surface smoothness was attained when wool fabric was treated with 3.5% (o.w.f.) RNS, and the curing temperature and time were 130 °C and 5 min, respectively. The surface smoothness of the treated fabric and its resistance to felting shrinkage were increased by 21.7% and 90% respectively. The effects of treatment of wool with the RNS on its bending stiffness, air and water permeability, yellowness, electrostatic charge, and ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) were monitored. The reaction mechanism between the used RNS and wool was studied using FTIR spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopic investigation showed a layer of the used RNS on the surface of the treated fabric. The finished fabric retained its air permeability and dyeability with anionic dye. The imparted fabric smoothness was find to be durable against washing until 5 washing cycles, and decreased by 5.5% of after 10 washing cycles respectively.
In the last decade, synthetic fiber, as a reinforcing specialist, has been mainly used in polymer matrix composites (PMC’s) to provide lightweight materials with improved stiffness, modulus, and strength. The significant feature of PMC’s is their reinforcement. The main role of the reinforcement is to withstand the load applied to the composite. However, in order to fulfill its purpose, the reinforcements must meet some basic criteria such as: being compatible with the matrix, making chemical or adhesion bonds with the matrix, having properties superior to the matrix, presenting the optimal orientation in composite and, also, having a suitable shape. The current review reveals a detailed study of the current progress of synthetic fibers in a variety of reinforced composites. The main properties, failure modes, and applications of composites based on synthetic fibers are detailed both according to the mentioned criteria and according to their types (organic or inorganic fibers). In addition, the choice of classifications, applications, and properties of synthetic fibers is largely based on their physical and mechanical characteristics, as well as on the synthesis process. Finally, some future research directions and challenges are highlighted.
Electron beam irradiation technology has gained more attention as it appears to be a promising economically and environmentally sustainable alternative to traditional wet-chemical processing. It is an advanced approach that is clean, solvent-free, time-saving, and ecologically benign with acceptable handling and operation properties. This review provides a study of the latest literature on the technology of electron beam irradiation surface modification of textile. Considerable emphasis is also placed on the most novel applications of electron beam irradiation such as the functionalization of textile materials, which leads to the development of alternative sustainable techniques or revolutionary advanced materials soon.
Graphical abstract
Biopolymers are a leading class of functional material suitable for high-value applications and are of great interest to researchers and professionals across various disciplines. Interdisciplinary research is important to understand the basic and applied aspects of biopolymers to address several complex problems associated with good health and well-being. To reduce the environmental impact and dependence on fossil fuels, a lot of effort has gone into replacing synthetic polymers with biodegradable materials, especially those derived from natural resources. In this regard, many types of natural or biopolymers have been developed to meet the needs of ever-expanding applications. These biopolymers are currently used in food applications and are expanding their use in the pharmaceutical and medical industries due to their unique properties. This review focuses on the various uses of biopolymers in the food and medical industry and provides a future outlook for the biopolymer industry.
Nowadays, natural and synthetic fibers are becoming a valuable resource for composite industry. The use of natural and synthetic fibers as reinforcement of polymeric matrices has many advantages: it betters mechanical properties per unit of weight, decreases the cost of manufacturing per unit of volume and, among other things, it is environmentally friendly. Despite all of this, the low compatibility between the constituents can result in a poor mechanical behavior. However, plasma treatments can modify the surface of the fibers used as reinforcement, so the bond between the phases of the composite can be improved by its use. In this work, we present the results of a comparative study of the effects produced by dry etching plasma treatments on Young’s modulus and surface morphology of Guadua angustifolia, Fique, and Nylon fibers. Natural and synthetic fibers were exposed to physical bombardment with argon ions during different time intervals. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed that all treated fibers exhibited rough surfaces and that the surface roughness augmented by increasing the bombardment time. The results of Young’s modulus as a function of bombardment time displayed a significant increment in Guadua and Fique fibers but did not change significantly in Nylon fibers. The serious damages produced in the natural fibers by ion bombardment as determined by SEM analysis could be considered as the main cause of the observed increase in Young’s modulus. Other causes, however, can not be ruled out as responsible for the increment in Young’s modulus in natural fibers and the almost null effect in synthetic fibers.
High crystallinity leads to low hydrophilicity of fabric made of (poly(ethylene terephthalate)) fibers (PET) causing problems in finishing, washing, and dyeing processes. To improve these properties, the surface of PET fibers is usually modified by hydrolysis. Alkaline hydrolysis is a conventional process usually performed at a temperature higher than 100 °C for more than 1 h. However, the use of strong alkali and high processing temperatures (>100 °C) can lead to fabric damage and a negative impact on the environment. Therefore, in this paper, the possibility of hydrolysis of the PET fibers in the fabric in a sustainable, energy-efficient process was researched. The influence of low temperature (60–100 °C) and an accelerator (a cationic surfactant HDTMAC) to PET alkaline hydrolysis was studied through weight loss, the loss in breaking force, and fiber morphology. The kinetics of PET dissolution in 1.5 mol cm⁻³ NaOH at low temperature with and without the addition of HDTMAC was determined and the activation energy was calculated according to the theoretical model. It has been confirmed that PET hydrolysis can be carried out in 1.5 mol cm⁻³ NaOH with the addition of HDTMAC as an accelerator at 80 °C for 10 min. This process is more economically and energetically acceptable than the conventional process, and is therefore more sustainable.
To eliminate imidacloprid insecticide from wastewater, nanocalcite was grafted onto the surface of pretreated polyester fabric. The process of seeding was followed by the low temperature hydrothermal method for the growth of nanocalcite for the functionalization of fabric. The goal of this study was to improve the hydrophilicity of the nanocalcite photocatalyst that had been grafted onto the surface of polyester fabric (PF) using acidic and basic prewetting techniques. The morphological characteristics, crystalline nature, surface charge density, functional groups of surface-modified nanocalcite @ PF were determined via SEM, XRD, FTIR, and Zeta potential (ZP), respectively. Characterization results critically disclosed surface roughness due to excessive induction of hydroxyl groups, rhombohedral crystal structure, and high charge density (0.721 mS/cm). Moreover, contact angle of nanocalcite @ PF was calculated to be 137.54° while after acidic and basic prewetting, it was reduced to 87.17° and 48.19°. Similarly, bandgap of the as fabricated nanocalcite was found to be 3.5 eV, while basic prewetted PF showed a reduction in band gap (2.9 eV). The solar photocatalytic mineralization of imidacloprid as a probe pollutant was used to assess the improvement in photocatalytic activity of nanocalcite @ PF after prewetting. Response surface methodology was used to statistically optimize the solar exposure time, concentration of the oxidant, and initial pH of the reaction mixture. Maximum solar photocatalytic degradation of the imidacloprid was achieved by basic prewetted nanocalcite @ PF (up to 91.49%), which was superior to acidic prewetted fabric and as-fabricated nanocalcite @ PF. Furthermore, HPLC and FTIR findings further indicated that imidacloprid was decomposed vastly to harmless species by basic prewetted nanocalcite @ PF.
Two forms of pollutants are usually discharged from scouring of wool fleece; namely the effluent liquid phase and the solid phase. These phases comprise a significant quantity of wool wax which would be a suitable candidate for valuable products and applications. This work is devoted to extraction, recovery, and characterization of lanolin from wool fleece from different sheep breeds to assign possible ways for its utilization in the textile field. The results show that the amount of wool wax extracted from coarse wool fleece as well as its chemical composition and physical properties are almost similar to those extracted from other finer wool fleece. The aim of this work is further devoted to separation and characterization of fatty acids (FAs) from the extracted wool wax. The separated wool FAs were esterified with poly ethylene glycol (PEG) to obtain a condensate which was utilized as a nonionic softener for wool. The alteration in morphology of the coated wool fabric was assessed using scanning electron microscopy. The results revealed that the WFA/PEG-coated fabrics exhibit reduced surface roughness and improved resistance to felting shrinkage during mechanical agitation.
The main objective of this work is the preparation of nano-fibrous mats (NFM) from polyamide 6 (PA6) reinforced and functionalized by renewable proteinic waste and examining their potential use for the sorption of heavy metal ions and dyes from wastewater from textile plants. Two renewable waste biopolymers; namely keratin (from waste of wool combing) and sericin (from degumming of natural silk) were extracted and regenerated. NFM were prepared by electro-spinning of PA6/ biopolymer composites in formic acid using nozzle-less electro-spinneret. The potential of the prepared mats for sorption of Cr+6, Cr+3, Cu+2, and Pb+2 cations as well as anionic and cationic dyes from wastewater was assessed. The prepared composites were characterized by measuring their viscosity, nano-fibre diameter, pore size, thickness, and air permeability. The morphological structure of the electro-spun NFM was investigated by scanning electron Microscopy. Chemical and physical properties of the obtained mat were studied FTIR, TGA, DSC, and XRD. The capacity of the prepared NFM for sorption of cations and dyes depended on the mat composition and the nature of the adsorbed cation or dye. This work meets some environmental and economic demand by extraction of keratin and sericin from waste materials and their utilization in reinforcement of PA6 NFM for sorption of selected cations as well as dyes from textile effluents.
In the first part of the study, dyed polyester fabric was treated with a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma at 1 W/cm² for 15, 30, 60 and 90 s. The wicking height, tensile strength and color of the control and plasma treated fabrics were measured. Results show that the fabric capillary increases with plasma treatment time up to 90 s. However, plasma treatment time longer than 60 s caused an obvious color change and decrease in tensile strength of fabric. Plasma contact time should be such that plasma can improve the hydrophilicity of the fabric and adversely affect the properties of the fabric as little as possible. Thus, the suitable plasma contact time should be less than 60 s. Based on these results, in the second part of the study, three different time levels (15, 20 and 30 s) were selected for plasma pretreatment of this fabric. The plasma-treated fabric was then padded with the flame retardant (FR) (CETAFLAM PDP 30), dried and finally cured at 190 °C for 120 s. The limited oxygen index (LOI) of FR fabrics and the vertical fire characteristics of FR fabric after being washed 5 times also were measured. Comparison of these results with those of FR fabrics without plasma pretreatment shows that plasma pretreatment improves the fabric’s flame retardancy and FR durability. Moreover, it also reduces the heat shrinkage of PET fabric due to high temperature curing. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of the fabric after plasma treatment and FR treatment and the energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) spectrum of the fabric are consistent with the above results.
In this study, functionalization of PET fabrics with amino groups was achieved by aminolysis. Aminolysis routes were explored using different amine-based materials including ethylenediamine (EDA), triaminotriethylamine (TAEA) and (3-aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane (APTMS), (3-trimethoxy-silylpropyl)diethylentriamine (TRIAMO) in addition to amino-functionalized silica nanoparticles as amino-silane based reagents. The samples were deeply characterized by SEM, AFM, and XPS. Abrasion and tensile tests were carried out to evaluate the mechanical properties of the modified fabrics. Results showed that aminolysis conducted with EDA and TAEA as amino based reagents lower the performances of PET, while dense coatings can be deposited on the fibres by amino silane-based reagents that act as protective layers. APTMS modified PET presented improved abrasion resistance compared to the native PET. The antibacterial activity of the PET surfaces functionalized with the different amino groups was also evaluated using the gram-negative bacterium A. fischeri antibacterial assay. The results showed improved antibacterial performances of the native textile treated with APTMS and TAEA based reagents.
Additive Manufacturing (AM), and more specifically Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), allow the production of highly customized parts, provide enormous freedom-of-design and can lead to material savings due to the layer-by-layer material deposition that is inherent to this family of production processes. FFF utilizes both amorphous and semi-crystalline thermoplastic filaments as feedstock materials, offering a wider range of materials compared to some other polymer-based additive manufacturing techniques. However, the current trend where FFF, and AM in general, are changing from a technique for rapid prototyping to the production of fully functional parts designed for high-end applications creates the inevitable need to incorporate more engineering and high-performance thermoplastics, which are most often semi-crystalline polymers, into the material palette. Crystallization provides semi-crystalline polymers with some distinct features that set them apart from their amorphous counterparts, yet it also can present difficulties regarding their processing. Understanding of the behavior of semicrystalline polymers during FFF processing is thus a prerequisite to exploit their full potential. This review provides a broad overview of FFF processing of semicrystalline polymers. Particular focus is on the impact of crystallinity on process conditions and feedstock modifications, such as the incorporation of fillers or the formation of blends, as well as the microstructure of printed parts, the impact of microstructure on the mechanical performance and general part quality. Furthermore, attention is given to some specific phenomena that can occur during printing of semi-crystalline feedstock filaments which have shown to strongly impact the printing process. Examples are self-nucleation in the case of insufficient heat transfer and melting, flow-induced crystallization due to high shear deformations upon extrusion, and the negative impact of crystallization on chain mobility which is relevant for the development of interlayer strength and on dimensional accuracy due to excessive shrinkage. Finally, this review is concluded with a critical outlook on perspectives for future research to address the current challenges that are still faced when employing semi-crystalline polymers as FFF feedstock.
Clothing is one of the primary human needs, and the demand is met by the global production of thousands of tons of textile fibers, fabrics and garments every day. Polyester clothing manufactured from oil-based polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is the market leader. Conventional PET creates pollution along its entire value chain—during the production, use and end-of-life phases—and also contributes to the unsustainable depletion of resources. The consumption of PET garments thus compromises the quality of land, water and air, destroys ecosystems, and endangers human health. In this article, we discuss the different stages of the value chain for polyester clothing from the perspective of sustainability, describing current environmental challenges such as pollution from textile factory wastewater, and microfibers released from clothing during the laundry cycle. We also consider potential solutions such as enhanced reuse and recycling. Finally, we propose a series of recommendations that should be applied to polyester clothing at all stages along the value chain, offering the potential for meaningful and effective change to improve the environmental sustainability of polyester textiles on a global scale.
Surface treatments are commonly employed on woven fabrics to render properties such as dyeability, antibacterial feature, self-cleaning, etc. A variety of environmentally benign cold plasma treatments present a viable alternative to the conventional wet chemical processes. The various plasma designs, however, may differ in the efficiency and the effect they exert on the fabrics. In this work a polyester woven fabric was treated by diffuse co-planar surface barrier discharges in atmospheric air for various lengths of time. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy investigation revealed that changes in surface chemistry occurred within 30 s of treatment. Carbon containing contaminations were removed and the surface became more oxidized, however, new chemical states have not been developed. As an effect, wettability and wickability of the fabric significantly increased. A slight increase in the roughness also occurred after treatment according to AFM measurements. The tensile strength of the fabric showed a gradually decreasing trend with respect to treatment time that could be attributed to damaged sites in the fabric generated by the local excessive etching of the plasma. The results show the detrimental effect of prolonged plasma treatment on the woven poly(ethylene-terephthalate) (PET) fabrics. Employing longer treatment times of 120 s and 180 s the mechanical properties reduced by ca. 40% and 50%, respectively, without significant changes in the surface morphology.
Polyester fiber is a manufactured fiber composed of synthetic linear macromolecules in the chain at least 85% by mass of an ester of diol and benzene-1, 4-dicarboxylic acid (terephthalic acid). Fibers of the most common polyester, poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET or PET), are generally made from either terephthalic acid or dimethyl terephthalate together with ethylene glycol. Dyeing of polyester fabric with disperse dyes, polyester requires the use of dispersing agents. The chemical characteristics and general application conditions of disperse dyes are characterized by the absence of solubilizing groups and low molecular weight. Dye particles have a size ranging from 0.5 to 2.0 microns, generally contain –NH2, substituted –NH2, or –OH groups in the structure, and get attached with the fiber through H-bond and van der Waals force. Dyes are retained by the fiber by physical forces. Fastness properties are very high in polyester except in certain cases. The dye-fiber (PET) affinity is the result of different types of interactions, such as hydrogen bonds, dipole-dipole interactions, and van der Waals forces.
1. Introduction
Polyester fiber is a manufactured fiber composed of synthetic linear macromolecules in the chain at least 85% by mass of an ester of diol and benzene-1, 4-dicarboxylic acid (terephthalic acid). Fibers of the most common polyester, poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET or PET), made from either terephthalic acid or dimethyl terephthalate together with ethylene glycol (Figure 1) [1].
Fabrics with special wettability have drawn growing attention in recent years in the area of oil–water separation due to their low cost, good flexibility, and ease of handling. However, an efficient and fast method to enable the required wetting state on fabrics still remains a challenge. In this work, a one‐step, rapid, and chemical‐free hydrogen plasma treatment is reported to prepare a superhydrophobic and oleophilic polyester fabric. The as‐prepared fabrics display a static water contact angle of 153.2° with excellent oil–water separation capability. The mechanism of surface transformation is discussed through chemical analyses, which indicate a significant removal of carboxyl group from the pristine hydrophilic surface. This developed method is envisaged to be used for on‐demand large‐scale production of materials for emergency oil cleanup through either separation or selective adsorption. A one‐step, rapid, and chemical‐free method has been developed to prepare a superhydrophobic and oleophilic polyester fabric. The as‐prepared fabrics display great water repellency and excellent oil–water separation capability. This developed method is envisaged to be used for on‐demand large‐scale production of materials for emergency oil cleanup through either separation or selective adsorption.
Development of conductive fabrics causes usually deterioration of the some of the comfort attributes of the final textile product. In this work, we propose a simple non-deteriorative method for preparation of electrical conductive fabrics based on wool and polyester as well as the blended fabric thereof. The unmodified fabrics or saponified polyester or oxidized wool were treated in aqueous solution containing heavy metal ion salts, namely, silver nitrate, copper II sulfate using exhaustion technique at 70°C for 1 h followed by reduction step. Nano zinc oxide was also used directly for treatment on the said fabrics. The electrical conductivity of the metal ions-treated fabrics and the influence of sewing on their conductivity was measured. The effect of pretreatment of the fabrics, saponification of polyester or oxidation of wool on their ability to absorb metal ions was monitored. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used to prove the incorporation of metal particles onto the treated fabrics. The change in chemical composition of the treated fabrics was studied using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Atomic absorption was adopted to measure the amount of metal incorporated onto the treated fabrics. The formation of nanometal crystals was proved using X-ray diffraction pattern. Different parameters of comfort, namely, air/water permeability of the treated as well as untreated fabrics were assessed. The treated fabrics exhibit enhanced electrical conductivity as well as some improved comfort properties without any effect on their inherent mechanical properties.
Polyester is a popular class of material used in material engineering. With its 0.4% moisture regain, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is classified as highly hydrophobic, which originates from its lack of polar groups on its backbone. This study used a parallel-plate nonthermal plasma dielectric barrier discharge system operating at medium pressure in dry air and nitrogen (N 2 ) to alter the surface properties of PET fabrics to increase their hydrophilic capabilities. Water contact angle, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were utilized to analyze any effect from the plasma treatment. The wettability analysis revealed a reduction in the contact angle of more than 80% within 5 min for both discharges. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed no microscopic damage to the fiber structure, guaranteeing that the fabrics’ structural integrity was preserved after treatment. AFM analysis showed an increase in the nanometer roughness, which was considered beneficial because it increased the total surface area, further increasing the hydrophilic capacity. XPS analysis revealed a sharp increase in the presence of polar functional groups, indicating that the induced surface changes are mostly chemical in nature. Comparing that of untreated fabrics to treated fabrics, a Increase in water absorption capacity was observed for air-treated and N 2 -treated fabrics, when these fabrics were used immediately after plasma exposure.
Robust immobilization of glucose oxidase (GOx) enzyme was achieved on poly(ethylene terephthalate) nonwoven fabric (PN) after integration of favourable surface functional groups through plasma treatments [atmospheric pressure-AP or cold remote plasma-CRP (N2 + O2)] and/or chemical grafting of hyperbranched dendrimers [poly-(ethylene glycol)-OH or poly-(amidoamine)]. Absorption, stability, catalytic behavior of immobilized enzymes and reusability of resultant fibrous bio-catalysts were comparatively studied. Full characterization of PN before and after respective modifications was carried out by various analytical, instrumental and arithmetic techniques. Results showed that modified polyester having amine terminal functional groups pledged better surface property providing up to 31% enzyme loading, and 81% active immobilized enzymes. The activity of the enzyme was measured in terms of interaction aptitude of GOx in a given time to produce hydrogen peroxide using colorimetric assay. The immobilized GOx retained 50% of its original activity after being reused six (06) times and exhibited improved stability compared with the free enzyme in relation to temperature. The reaction kinetics, loading efficiency, leaching, and reusability analysis of enzyme allowed drawing a parallel to the type of organic moiety integrated during GOx immobilization. In addition, resultant fibrous bio-catalysts showed substantial antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria strains (Staphylococcus epidermidis and Escherichia coli) in the presence of oxygen and glucose. These results are of great importance because they provide proof-of-concept for robust immobilization of enzymes on surface-modified fibrous polyester fabric for potential bio-industrial applications.
This research aimed to improve anti-dripping and ignitability properties of polyester fabric polyethylene terephthalate (PET) by using urea (CO(NH2)2), phosphoric acid (H3PO4), methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS) via sol-gel technique. Methyl groups served as blocking groups preventing oxygen from penetrating into PET specimen, so the fire stopped. The interaction between the coating and irradiated surface of PET was detected by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy using UV/ozone for different time periods. The mechanical properties (tensile and elongation %) of the specimens were tested according to ISO 13934. The thermogravimetric analysis, derivative thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry proved that the new coating has a direct efficiency to protect the PET fabric from ignition. Different standard test methods, ISO 4589, ASTM D635, and EN ISO 1716, were used to investigate the ignition properties of untreated and treated specimens. The results showed that the coated specimens with a urea solution only as a first layer, and then the sol solution as the second layer have the highest flame retardant effect compared to the other methods. This results in improving the dripping and ignition properties of a polyester fabric.
Polypropylene (PP) has unique competitiveness with other synthetic fibers due to its suitable spinnability, availability of raw materials, and low processing cost. PP fabric exhibits excellent chemical, physical, and mechanical properties, such as a light texture, adequate tensile strength, and resistance to most chemicals. However, the absence of reactive functional groups in PP fiber, besides its high crystallinity, results in hydrophobic surface, low affinity to dyestuffs, and poor antistatic properties, which restrict its use in the clothing field. Herein, a water- and energy-saving, eco-friendly finish is proposed to render PP desired properties suitable for textile applications. The surface of PP fabric was activated using oxygen and nitrogen plasma radiations. The plasma-irradiated PP fabric was post-treated with two renewable eco-friendly proteinic biopolymers, namely gelatin and sericin, in the presence and absence of a crosslinking agent. The effects of different process conditions on the properties of the modified PP, including the duration of plasma exposure, the concentration of biopolymer, and treatment temperature were monitored. The affinity of the treated PP fabric towards anionic and cationic dyes was evaluated. The findings of this study demonstrated that the comfort attributes of the plasma/biopolymer-finished fabrics, such as the induced antistatic properties, wettability, and ultraviolet protection, were remarkably improved. The plasma-mediated biopolymer-finished PP fabrics were found dyeable with cationic and anionic dyes. The change in the chemical and morphological structures of PP fabrics was monitored using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy.
Traditional pre-treatments, dyeing, and finishing of textiles have high environmental impacts because of the high usage of energy, water, and chemicals, and the production of effluent containing leftover harmful dyes and chemicals. In this comprehensive review article, the advances in applications of ultrasound in the sustainable pre-treatments, dyeing, and finishing of various types of textiles to reduce their environmental impacts are discussed and the advantages/disadvantages of such processes are outlined. The enhancement of pre-treatment, dyeing, and finishing performances along with a reduction in processing time, temperatures, and chemical usage by applying sonication has been summarized. The effect of sonication on dye adsorption isotherms, adsorption kinetics, and dye adsorption mechanisms of various fibers dyed with different dyes are also discussed. Moreover, challenges and prospects for ultrasound in the chemical processing of textiles are projected. The application of ultrasound considerably reduces processing time, temperature, and chemical usage and also enables low-liquor ratio dyeing of textiles. However, the lack of availability of convincing data on savings of energy, water, and chemical usage of using ultrasound in actual industrial production machinery is one of the key reasons that the textile industry is slow in adopting sonochemical processes.
Dyeing using liquid paraffin (LP) systems is an emerging non-aqueous dyeing method for disperse dyes. To investigate the dyeing thermodynamics and kinetics of polyester fabrics dyed with disperse dyes (C.I. Disperse Red 167) in an LP system, the adsorption isotherms and dyeing rate curves in a water bath and a LP bath were plotted. Next, a molecular dynamics (MD) simulation model was constructed. The results showed that the adsorption isotherms and dyeing rate curves in the LP bath and the water bath had the same shape and trend, and the isotherms were consistent with the Nernst isotherm equation. The dyeing affinity of disperse dyes in the LP bath was smaller than that in water bath, due to the higher solubility of disperse dyes in LP than in water. The dyeing heat, dyeing entropy, dyeing rate constant, and apparent diffusion coefficient of disperse dyes in LP bath showed the same sign and similar change trend as those in water bath. The diffusion activation energy of disperse dyes in LP bath was higher than that in water bath, indicating more energy consumption required in LP bath than in water bath. The system of dyeing polyester with disperse dyes in LP bath was investigated at the atomic level by using MD simulations, and the results confirmed the accuracy and reliability of the constructed dyeing models.
The knitted fabrics which are used in the manufacture of sportswear should be fitting to some parts of the body with enough stretch-ability; namely the breast area including the under-arms. Herein, we adopt CLO3D simulation system to assign the proper blending ratio and fabric weight of selected bio-treated knitted polyester/Lycra (PET/L) blended fabric for manufacture of sportswear. Three different blending ratios (96/4, 94/6 and 92/8) with three different fabric weights; light (160 g/m2), medium (200 g/m2), and heavy (250 g/m2) of PET/L knitted fabrics were fabricated. These fabrics were bio-treated with the lipolytic enzyme Lipolase 100L-EX to enhance the fabric hydrophilicity and to reduce the accumulation of electrostatic charge on the fabric surface without severe loss in fabric weight and burst force. Results of this investigation revealed that the light and medium weight bio-treated PET/L (92/8) knitted fabric exhibited the highest hydrophilicity and lowest electrostatic charge; thus they have been selected for evaluation by CLO3D simulation system. The selected bio-treated samples were found to have appropriate fitting (pressure) and stretch-ability at the shoulders, under-arms, and breast areas of a soft bra usually used in some women's sportswear. Bio-treatment of the said fabric with Lipolase 100L-EX had no significant effect on the fabric thickness and air permeability. The polyester component of the bio-treated PET/L knitted fabrics was found to be dyeable with the cationic dye C.I. Basic Red 18. The scanning electron microscopy revealed no deterioration in bio-treated knitted fabrics which assures that the used lipase enzyme is a benign reagent for activation of the polyester fibre surface.
The textile and apparel industry represents a multi-billion market with a wide range of innovations. The comfort characteristics of the textiles goods are of prime importance as they are in close contact with human skin to cover the body and protect it from extreme surroundings. In this article review, the current status and the future prospects of utilization of plasma irradiation in the surface modifications of various textile substrates were outlined. The different types of plasma irradiation used in surface modifications in general, and in textile substrate specifically, were compared. Plasma technology applied to textiles is a dry, environmentally and worker-friendly approach for altering the surface properties of various materials without changing their bulk properties. Because most of the textile materials are heat-sensitive polymers atmospheric non-thermal plasma is the most suitable for textile treatment. In this review article we throw the light on the different types of plasma, their surface interaction and applications on natural and synthetic fibers to improve their surface properties. Special emphasis was directed towards surface modifications of polypropylene fibers using plasma technology.
Degumming of natural silk is energy and water-consuming process which is usually carried out at the boil for 3 h in three consecutive water baths or by using alkaline soapy solutions. Herein, we adopted an energy and water-saving green method for degumming of raw natural silk by the thermophilic protease enzyme (TPE) from Bacillus safensis FO-36bMZ836779 strain. Bio-degumming of natural silk was carried out using different enzyme concentrations, temperatures, duration and pH. The dyeability of the conventionally and bio-degummed natural silk towards acid dye was investigated. To save more energy and water, a one-bath degumming and dyeing of natural silk was conducted in two successive steps. The chemical, physical and mechanical properties of the bio-degummed silk fibers were studied using amino acid analysis, SDS-PAGE electrophoresis, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction pattern, whiteness index, and tensile strength. The chemical and biological oxygen demand as well as the total dissolved and suspended salts of the bio-degumming effluent were measured. Results of study show this that the amount of sericin obtained from bio-degumming of silk at the optimum conditions (50% v/v at 55 °C for 3 h) is very close to that obtained by the energy and time-consuming conventional degumming process. The degree of whiteness of the bio-degummed natural silk was highly improved without any negative impact on dyeability and mechanical properties. No severe deterioration of the bio-degummed fibre surface was detected by the SEM micrographs. The molecular weight of sericin extracted by degumming process is lower than that obtained by conventional degumming of natural silk.
Durable superamphiphobic cotton fabrics with improved ultraviolet (UV) radiation resistance and photocatalysis were prepared by simultaneous introduction of fluorine-modified CuS/SiO2 aerogel particles and adhesive polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). The fluorine-modified CuS/SiO2 aerogel particles and PDMS were used to obtain elastomeric nanocomposite coating which was applied to coat cotton fabrics via a dip-coating method. The coated cotton fabrics were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscope (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results showed that fluorine-modified CuS/SiO2 aerogel particles and PDMS adhesive layer were successfully coated onto the cotton fabric. The prepared cotton fabric showed excellent superamphiphobicity with a water contact angle of 157.6°± 1.1° and an oil contact angle of 153.1°± 1.2°, respectively. The coated cotton fabric was also proved to possess high anti-ultraviolet radiation property with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of about 180.67 and good photocatalytic activity. Furthermore, the prepared superamphiphobic fabric exhibited good durability against abrasion, laundering and UV irradiation. The superamphiphobic coating showed no negative effect on fabric stiffness of the coated cotton fabric. This multifunctional cotton fabric may pave a potential way for broad applications.
Although woolen garments exhibit outstanding performance, appearance, and comfort characteristics, yet they suffer from their tendency to felt and shrink during mechanical agitation, which prohibits their laundering in domestic washing machines. In this review article, the chemical and technological aspects of previous and current methods used to obtain machine-washable wool were outlined and criticized. Biological and physical methods for felt-proofing of wool were briefly highlighted. The most common industrial method used for the production of machine-washable wool is the chlorine-Hercosett process. However, this is a polluting process due to the liberation of Adsorbable Organohalogens (AOX) produced by the reaction of chlorine as well as Hercosett polymer with wool keratin. Hence, new reagents were proposed as potential candidates and possible alternatives for the commercially used polluting methods for the prevention of felting shrinkage. These include ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents. Treatment of wool with the suggested reagents would result in partial descaling of wool tops without adverse loss in fibers weight and tenacity.
The effects of atmospheric air plasma treatment based on dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) technology on the surface alteration of a woven polyester (PET) textile fabric were investigated. Chemical and physical surface modifications were characterized by specific wettability measurements (water contact angle-WCA and % capillarity), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), zeta potential assessments, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and chemical quantification analysis using ortho-toluidine blue (TBO) dye before and after the DBD processing. A striking enhancement of capillarity percentage from 1.6 % to 108 % was ensured by the plasma treatment suggesting that special chemical elements such as hydroxyl, carbonyl, and carboxyl groups were embedded on the polyester surface, thereby offering it a new hydrophilic behavior. The morphological analysis revealed that plasma treatment is a suitable mechanism to enhance the roughness of treated samples improving furthermore the water retention of the fabric and making the structure more adapted to further chemicals applications. The zeta potential and chemical quantification analysis were also of great interest since they reveal overall the same trend as do the wettability measurements and confirms that the extent of surface modification is in big dependency to the selected plasma parameters. Dyeability of untreated and plasma treated samples was also investigated in terms of color strength, in addition to wash and rub fastness. Sufficiently, higher dyeing performances were noted for plasma treated polyester when compared to the untreated fabric. Atmospheric air plasma treatment was found to be an effective approach to boost the technical reactivity of PET fabrics opening up new opportunities for surface modification under the growing environmental and energy-saving concerns.
Conventional polyester dyeing with disperse dyes consumes a large amount of freshwater resource and requires a great deal of dispersant, which poses a major challenge to the dyeing and finishing industry. To meet the requirements of clean production and sustainable development, a modified decamethyl-cyclopentasiloxane (D5) non-aqueous medium dyeing system containing a little water was proposed in this study, and the effect and mechanism of a little water on the polyester dyeing were investigated. Both D5 and liquid paraffin non-aqueous medium dyeing systems containing approximately 50% (on weight of fabric, owf) water are observed to significantly improve the dye uptake of disperse dyes and the color strength of dyed fabric with excellent levelness and high colorfastness. The confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) with fluorescent labeling technique confirms the accessibility of water in the surface layer of polyester fiber, and the dynamic thermomechanical analysis (DTMA) reveals the diffusion of water into the polyester fiber, thereby reducing the glass transition temperature (Tg) of polyester fibers by plasticization effect, promoting the movement of fiber molecular chain segments, and enabling the fixation stage of dyeing to be performed at a lower temperature. The dyeing principle of the modified D5 medium dyeing of polyester has enriched the theoretical system of non-aqueous medium dyeing, being conducive to facilitate the development of the sustainable dispersant-free and water saving polyester dyeing technology.
A hydrophobic polyester fabric with a prior surface activation using a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) treatment was successfully dyed with natural Logwood dye (Haematoxylum campechianum L.) applying successive padding steps. Chemical and physical surface modifications were characterized by specific wettability measurements (water contact angle-WCA and % capillarity), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), zeta potential assessments and chemical quantification assay using ortho toluidine blue dye (TBO) before and after the DBD experiment. Padding processes without and with an ecofriendly formaldehyde-free acrylate binder and bioactive agent chitosan, were tested and the resulting dyeing performances were compared in terms of color strength and fastness properties. Significant color strengths were noted on the plasma activated polyester fabrics without the use of mordants. Results were highly dependent of the selected padding method used. While color intensity (K/S) depended on fixation temperature, the plasma treatment enhanced the K/S values and led to very good wash fastness (4/5). Combination of plasma treatment and acrylate binder further enhanced the fastness including rub fastness (4/5). In addition, results showed that the wet pick-up rate of dye solution was 40% higher after plasma treatment. This result was related to the new chemical and physical modification of polyester fiber surface properties after plasma treatment. Dyeing of plasma treated polyester fiber with a bio-based logwood dye without any addition of metallic mordant while imparting antibacterial properties, was found to be a promising strategy opening up a suitable eco-option for replacing some of the hazardous dyes and intermediates used in textile dyeing.
Wool is sensitive toward the effect of alkaline solutions which are usually used in the dissolution of wool fibers to regenerate keratin. In this investigation, the effect of different alkalis on the chemical composition and the secondary structure of wool was studied. Wool was treated with equivalent amounts of alkali metal hydroxides (lithium, sodium, and potassium hydroxides) as well as alkaline earth metal hydroxides (strontium and barium hydroxides). The effect of these alkalis on wool was monitored using amino acid analysis, elemental analysis, carboxylic content, acid, and base combining capacity, urea-bisulfite and alkali solubility, and FTIR spectroscopy. Further structure elucidation was conducted by thermo-gravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, and X-ray diffraction pattern. Scanning electron microscopy was used to assign the alteration of the fiber morphology of the alkali-treated wool. The results of this investigation indicate that the effect of the used alkalis on wool is not similar. Cystine, glycine, and the basic amino acids are the most affected species in the treated wool. Some elimination reactions were involved during alkaline treatment of wool; namely decarboxylation, desulphydration, and deamination. The secondary structure of wool treated with Sr(OH)2 and Ba(OH)2 was changed from the α-helical structure into the β-sheet form.
Felting shrinkage of wool is a major problem which has negative impacts on its performance attributes. Traditional chemical methods used for shrink-resist finishing are suffering from some drawbacks. Therefore, this work aimed at the utilization of microbial protease in wet processing of wool. The bacterial strain Bacillus licheniformis ALW1 produced 52.1 U/mL enzyme activity that was thermophilic with optimum activity at pH 9. Additionally, the enzyme possessed a keratinolytic activity of 4.1 U/mL, suggesting its applicability in wool processing. Therefore, the effects of different treatment conditions; Viz. concentration of the enzyme, temperature, treatment period and pH on some of the physical and chemical characteristics of wool were studied. The felting shrinkage of wool fibers was determined using the Aachener 3-D felting machine. The influence of the enzymatic modification of wool on its dyeability with anionic dye was assessed. Chemical, physical, and mechanical properties of treated samples were evaluated using amino acid analysis, alkali solubility, Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, whiteness index, and tensile properties. Scanning electron microscopy was applied for the examination of wool fibers’ surface. The results proved that the modification of wool fibers with the produced enzyme highly improved their felting resistance and dyeability with acid dye without adverse effects on its inherent properties.
Textile wet processing is one of the most water-consuming industries. The deficiency of soft water in some parts of the world urged the researchers to exert effort toward minimization of water consumption during textile wet processes. In this work, we bleach wool fabrics by hydrogen peroxide, followed by utilization of the discharged bleaching bath (DBB) in dyeing of wool with acid, reactive, and basic dyes. The residual H2O2 in the bleaching bath was decomposed into water and oxygen by adding low concentrations of potassium iodide (KI). Results of this investigation clarify that treatment of the DBB with KI is mandatory to make the bath appropriate for wool dyeing. The dyeability of wool toward the said dyes in KI-treated DBB is significantly higher than that upon dyeing with tap water. The fastness properties of the dyed fabric to washing, perspiration, and light were assessed. The turbidity, pH, total dissolved salts (TDS), total suspended salts (TSS), biological oxygen demand (BOD), and chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the bleaching effluent were assessed. Solubility of bleached/dyed wool fabrics in alkali and urea-bisulfite solutions assures the modification of some disulfide bonds along wool keratin macromolecules into cystine oxides/cysteic acid residues, and consequently the dyeability was enhanced.
The mosquito‐transmitted diseases are of serious concern and are affecting several millions of peoples worldwide. Instead of medication afterward the disease initiated, self‐protection against the mosquito's is preferable, specifically in endemic areas. For this purpose, the permethrin coated clothing is a suitable choice to avoid mosquitos' bites. Unfortunately, the permethrin coating on fabrics is not long‐lasting, and its laundering resistance is very low on hydrophobic fabric. In this study, the effect of plasma surface modification of PET fabric on the adhesion of permethrin and its laundering resistance are evaluated. The plasma processing is carried out in nitrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen–oxygen mixture plasma. The samples are analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope and chromatography. The results show that the oxygen plasma pre‐treated samples exhibit the higher residual contents of permethrin after 60 wash cycles as compared with other gasses. Without plasma pre‐treatment, the 95% loss, whereas the sample with oxygen plasma pre‐treatment shows that only 22% loss of initial concentration of permethrin occurs after washing. This study shows that plasma pre‐treatment is valuable to improve the absorption of permethrin in PET and its laundering‐resistance. As plasma treatment is a cost‐effective technique, it needs less processing time and eco‐friendly, thus it is a great choice to deposit long‐lasting permethrin coating by plasma pre‐treatment, instead of conventional binding agents. Remarkably, the plasma treatment technique is a well‐established and industrially acceptable technique, thus expected to be of noteworthy importance for insecticide garments manufacturers.
Considering specific mechanical, hygienic and protective properties of hemp, as well as its positive sustainability aspects, the raising role of hemp fibres in the textile sector can be expected. The limited deformability of hemp fibres, which has a negative influence on the tactile comfort, can be overcome by blending them with other soft fibres. In this project, an attempt was made to overcome this limitation by blending them with soft and warm acrylic fibres so as to avoid any chemical treatments with softeners. The composition of the knitted fabrics was designed at the knitting production stage, offering the knitwear factories a new possibility for fibre blending. The produced single jersey knitted fabrics were evaluated in terms of their thermal behaviour in both steady-state and transient conditions. Since this type of knitted fabrics is prone to dimensional changes and distortion upon repeated laundering, the undershirts made thereof were subjected to the wear trial test (repeated wear and care cycles) in real life situations, in order to assess changes in the thermal properties of the knitted fabrics. Observed changes in the geometry of the knitted fabrics and morphology of the fibres after a period of wear and care of the undershirts have had positive effects on the thermal properties of the hemp based knits. Hemp/acrylic knitted fabric has undergone the biggest change in the geometry, but moderate change in thermal properties comparing to those of the hemp knit. The values of thermal parameters of the hemp/acrylic knit after repeated wear and care cycles which were in the range of those of the hemp knit before the wear trial test, confirmed that the hemp-blend proposed by this study would follow the trend of good hemp thermal behaviour in terms of comfort at the exploitation stage. The presented results offer a product design strategy to increase the performance, economic and environmental benefits for both the producers and consumers.
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) has been widely used in fabrics owing to its great mechanical properties, easy processability and quick drying. However, PET-based products always suffer from uncomfortable low sweat uptake and electrostatic charge buildup mainly due to its bad surface wettability. Moreover, porous fabrics may induce unfavorable mite and microorganism reproduction. Due to lack of reactive groups on the PET skeleton, it was very difficult to endow its surface hydrophilicity, antistatic properties, perdurable antimicrobial and anti-mite properties by conventional methods. In this work, we develop a one-step eco-friendly finishing strategy for PET fabrics through photochemical reaction using benzophenone group terminated quaternary ammonium salt (BP-QAS) as the finishing reagent. The as-finished PET fibers changed from incompact state to compact state due to the increased cohesive forces within individual fibers, resulting in improved tearing strength. The PET fabrics show significantly improved hydrophilicity, and antistatic properties. Furthermore, the as-finished PET fabrics exhibit excellent, durable broad-spectrum antimicrobial activities against gram-negative, gram-positive, drug-resistant bacteria and fungi. Moreover, our fabric shows long-lasting antimicrobial properties above AAA requirements after 50 laundering cycles. Usual PET fabrics generally have difficulty achieving AAA standards after 10 laundering clyles. In addition, our as-prepared fabrics showed excellent anti-mite activities against house dust mites based on disruption of the microbial and mite membrane due to oxidation stress, while no negative effects were observed for mouse and rabbit. The finished PET fabrics can be applied to multiple industries to prevent infectious diseases and improve public health, including but not limited to packaging, clothes, water treatment, and medical appliances.
Chitosan, a natural biopolymer, is used as a multifunctional agent for modification of wool either through chemical crosslinking or physical coating. For the first time, wool fabric has been modified with chitosan through disulfide bond breaking and reforming reactions. The chitosan was thiolated and then grafted onto the reduced wool fibers through disulfide bonds. In order to understand the mechanism of the grafting of thiolated chitosan onto wool, glutathione was used as a model compound for wool in the research. The structures of thiolated chitosan reacted with glutathione and wool fabrics grafted with thiolated chitosan were investigated by FTIR, ¹³CNMR, XPS, XRD, SEM. The dyeability, shrink-resistance and biocompatibility were also tested. The results suggested that glutathione reacted with thiolated chitosan and formed disulfide bond. The thiolated chitosan-grafted wool fabric had good shrink-resistance and dyeability. Hydrophilicity and antibacterial properties were also improved compared with untreated wool fabric. The results provide a novel approach for modification of wool through fiber-intrinsic groups like disulfide bonds.