Multifunctional fabrics finished using electrosprayed hybrid Janus particles containing nanocatalysts

There is great market demand for fabrics equipped with multiple functionalities. However, most methods to impart these properties to a pristine fabric are complicated, time-consuming, and expensive. In this work, Janus particles with one side comprising TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs)-PVDF (poly (vinylidene fluoride)) and the other an epoxy resin (TPE) were deposited on a fabric surface. The aim was to endow the fabric with the superhydrophobic, UV resistance, and antimicrobial properties. The Janus particles were firmly attached to the fabrics through the adhesion effects of the epoxy resin. Characterization by XRD, SEM, EDX, and FTIR verified the successful finishing of the fabric with TPE particles. The ultraviolet protection factor increased from 7.86 for the pristine fabric to 733 after finishing. The finished fabric also exhibited superhydrophobic properties, with a water contact angle of 152 degrees. Further, the coating of the fabric did not hamper its gas permeability. Potent antibacterial properties against E. coli were observed owing to the antibacterial properties of TiO2 under pre-irradiation by UV light. The protocols reported here provide a new platform for the nano-finishing of fabrics, allowing new functions to be imparted without compromising.

Automated summary

The study involved depositing Janus particles on fabric surface to impart superhydrophobic, UV resistance, and antimicrobial properties. The finished fabric showed significantly increased ultraviolet protection factor and water contact angle, while maintaining gas permeability.