Novel method for ultraviolet protection and flame retardancy of cotton fabrics by low-temperature plasma

A novel approach, namely the nitrogen plasma technique, to confer flame-retardant and ultraviolet (UV)-protective properties on cotton fabric is described. Treated cotton fabrics showed very good UV-blocking property. According to the standard, the treated cotton fabric can be claimed to be a UV-protective product. The fire-retardant character of the treated fabrics was investigated by char yield, thermogravimetric analysis, and limiting oxygen index measurements. Also, the effect of aging on the mentioned properties was studied. The ultraviolet protection factor and flame-retardant properties of atmospheric pressure plasma-treated cotton were also measured and compared with nitrogen plasma treatment.