Thermal properties of cotton fabric modified with poly (propylene imine) dendrimers

For the first time, thermal stability and flame retardant properties of cotton fabrics modified with poly (propylene imine) dendrimer (PPI-dendrimer) using cross linking agents have been reported. The PPI-dendrimers can be considered as novel nitrogen flame retardant agents, because they contain a large number of nitrogen-containing groups (amine end groups), which may release nitrogen gas or ammonia. In this paper, the effect of the PPI-dendrimers on thermal behavior of cotton fabric is investigated through thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, flammability (in vertical configuration) and limiting oxygen index tests. Indeed, both thermal stability and flame retarancy of the modified fabrics have significantly enhanced. Furthermore, field emission scanning electron microscopy micrographs have been studied in order to evaluate morphology of the cotton samples. Crystallinity and physical properties including crease recovery angle, breaking strength, whiteness index and hygroscopicity of the samples have been also assessed.