Search Results (42)

This study presents an environmentally sustainable finishing approach for hemp fabrics by combining soy protein isolate (SPI) pretreatment with an in situ infrared (IR)-assisted synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs). IR heating was employed to reduce energy consumption while promoting efficient nanoparticle formation compared to conventional thermal processing, while SPI acted as a bio-based stabilizer to enable uniform ZnO NP distribution on the fabric surface. Transmission electron microscopy revealed predominantly spherical to polyhedral ZnO NPs with minimal agglomeration, and X-ray diffraction confirmed their characteristic wurtzite crystalline structure. Scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy mapping further verified the homogeneous deposition of ZnO NPs on hemp fibers. The treated fabrics exhibited multifunctional performance, showing significantly enhanced ultraviolet (UV) protection with a UV protection factor (UPF) of 50+ compared with untreated hemp. Antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli was confirmed by the AATCC TM147 test, while a quantitative AATCC TM100 assessment demonstrated an excellent antibacterial efficiency of 99.99% bacterial reduction against S. aureus. Additionally, the incorporation of 2 wt% SPI significantly improved fabric hydrophilicity and wettability. Overall, this work demonstrates a green and effective strategy for producing antibacterial and UV-protective hemp textiles. Full article

Biodegradable polymer materials, which reduce the problem of waste and are often produced from renewable raw materials, contribute to sustainable development. The imparting of antimicrobial properties to biodegradable materials represents a significant advantage in a variety of potential applications, including the domain of packaging materials and medical applications. In this study, biodegradable polymer compositions, including polylactide (PLA) and polycaprolactone (PCL), were prepared with copper, which was applied to the polymers using a magnetron sputtering technique. PLA and PCL were selected as representatives of biodegradable polymers of natural and synthetic origin. Copper was used as an alternative to other more expensive metals with antimicrobial properties. The microbiological properties of the samples were examined, the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) was determined, and the influence of controlled thermo-oxidative and weathering aging on the surface properties of the materials (color, wettability, surface energy, UV-Vis spectra) was analyzed. The UPF values for the PLA and PCL samples containing copper were UPF > 50, so the materials provided excellent UV protection. Thermo-oxidative aging of PCL and weathering aging of PLA influenced the change in color and surface properties (wettability and surface energy) of the composition, resulting from the oxidation of the copper layer deposited on the polymers. Biological evaluation included measurements of prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) to assess how the synthesized materials influence the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways of blood coagulation, reflecting their potential biomedical relevance. Furthermore, the antimicrobial performance of the obtained samples was examined against representative bacterial strains—Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive) and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative)—to verify their ability to inhibit microbial growth and ensure their suitability for use in infection-prone environments. Full article

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) represents significant risks to both textile durability and human health. Natural dyes are gaining attention as eco-friendly alternatives to synthetic UV-blocking agents, offering aesthetic and functional benefits. This study explores the UV-protective properties of 100% cotton knit fabrics dyed with natural dyes—indigo, weld, and madder—using different mordanting processes, including materials with mordant abilities such as alum, pomegranate peel, and tannin extracted from quebracho. Twenty samples were evaluated, including undyed, individually treated, and combined dye-mordant formulations. UV protection was assessed through spectral transmittance and Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) measurements before and after washing. The results showed that natural dyes significantly improved the UV resistance of cotton fabrics, particularly when combined with products like pomegranate and the tannin–alum mixture. Notably, some samples demonstrated improved UPF and became darker after washing, such as mordant combinations like tannin with alum. These findings suggest that natural dye, when combined with appropriate mordants, offers a sustainable and effective approach to producing UV-protective textiles. This is particularly valuable in children’s clothing, where chemical safety and sun protection are crucial. Future research should investigate the influence of pH on dye stability and UV-blocking performance to optimise formulations for industrial use and long-term functionality. Full article

The development of functional textiles has become a key focus in recent years, aiming to meet the diverse requirements of modern society. MXene has excellent conductivity, hydrophilicity, and UV resistance, and is widely used in electromagnetic shielding, sensors, energy storage, and photothermal conversion. Tussah silk (TS) is a unique natural textile raw material and has a unique jewelry luster, natural luxury, and a smooth and comfortable feel. However, there are relatively few studies on the functional finishing of TS fabric with Ti₃C₂T_x MXene. Here, we developed a multifunctional MXene/tussah silk (MXene/TS) fabric by the deposition of Ti₃C₂T_x MXene sheets on the surface of TS fabric through a simple padding–drying–curing process. The obtained MXene/TS fabric (five cycles) exhibited excellent conductivity (4.8 S/m), air permeability (313.6 mm/s), ultraviolet resistance (ultraviolet protection factor, UPF = 186.3), photothermal conversion (temperature increase of 11 °C), and strain sensing. Thanks to these superior properties, the MXene/TS fabric has broad application prospects in motion monitoring, smart clothing, flexible wearables, and artificial intelligence. Full article

Polyvinyl butyral (PVB) is a high-performance thermoplastic polymer, commonly used as an interlayer material in laminated safety glass for the automotive and architectural sectors. Currently, there is no end-of-life cycle program for a substantial amount of PVB film, which mainly ends up in landfills. According to a circular approach, PVB can be revalorized after efficient separation and recovery from glass. Thus, the aim of this work was to develop functional coatings for textile applications using recycled PVB (re-PVB), also in combination with an organic UV absorber, to enable the production of UV-protective final coated fabrics. The re-PVB-coated fabrics were obtained through an industrially scalable spraying process (leading to an average weight increase of 20 ± 3 wt.%), and the effectiveness of the application was evaluated according to different characterization techniques, such as FT-IR (Fourier transform–infrared) spectroscopy, SEM (scanning electron microscope), a washing test, a mechanical test, a thermo-physiological test, and the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF). Based on the results, the re-PVB-coated fabrics appeared stable upon washing (with a negligible weight loss compared to the average amount of coating) and effective in UV protection (with a final UPF being four times higher and a reduced UVA transmittance from 2.0% to 0.6%). Full article

This study introduces a novel approach for enhancing the functional properties of cotton fibers through complexation of copper sulfate, and subsequent combination with chitosan (COT-CuSO₄-CTS). Our preliminary investigations focused on the development composites as candidate materials for functional coatings with antimicrobial properties. The materials were thoroughly characterized via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy, providing insights into their structural features and composition. The findings show that the modified cotton materials exhibit potent antimicrobial activity. Specifically, the COT-CuSO₄ and COT-CuSO₄-CTS samples demonstrated zones of inhibition against both Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus and Gram-negative Escherichia coli, confirming their ability to reduce microbial growth significantly. The incorporation of a chitosan layer significantly enhanced the Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of the cotton fabric from 3.37 to over 50, indicating exceptional UV shielding capabilities, while copper(II) oxide treatment provided a moderate UPF value of 14.56. Blood compatibility studies further revealed that COT-CuSO₄ and COT-CuSO₄-CTS fabrics influence coagulation parameters, with a marked prolongation in activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time (PT) compared to untreated cotton. This anticoagulant effect is primarily linked to the presence of copper, although the addition of chitosan modulates this response, slightly reducing clotting times compared to COT-CuSO₄ alone. Cytotoxicity and genotoxicity assessments using Peripheral Blood Mononuclear (PBM) cells indicated that untreated cotton was non-toxic and non-genotoxic. However, COT-CuSO₄ and COT-CuSO₄-CTS fabrics displayed a reduction in cell viability and induced DNA damage, highlighting their potential cytotoxic and genotoxic effects. Notably, COT-CuSO₄-CTS showed lower cytotoxicity and genotoxicity than COT-CuSO₄-CTS, suggesting that chitosan reduces the overall cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of the composite. Furthermore, plasmid DNA relaxation assays indicated that COT-CuSO₄ and COT-CuSO₄-CTS interact with DNA, with COT-CuSO₄ exhibiting a stronger interaction than COT-CuSO₄-CTS, consistent with the findings on PBM cells. Full article

This study explores the bioactive potential of banana leaf extracts and their innovative integration into knitted hemp fabrics. To obtain the extracts, distinct extraction methodologies were employed, namely conventional extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, and pressurized-liquid extraction. Aqueous and hydroethanolic solvents, namely 20% (v/v) and 50% (v/v), were employed during the extraction process. Furthermore, the cationization and functionalization of knitted hemp fabrics with the banana leaf extracts was achieved through padding. The extracts’ phenolic content and antioxidant activity were evaluated using the Folin–Ciocalteu (FC) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays, respectively. The results indicated that both ultrasound-assisted extraction and pressurized-assisted extraction substantially enhanced the yield of phenolic compounds in comparison to conventional extraction, while employing 50% EtOH as a solvent also improved extraction yields for all extraction methodologies. The functionalized knits were further characterized concerning their antioxidant activity by DPPH, assessing their antimicrobial properties through ATCC TM-100 standard against three microorganisms (Staphylococcus aureus, Candida Krusei, and Candida albicans), and UV protection according to the standard AS/NZS 4399:2017. Antioxidant activity was highest in knits functionalized with extracts obtained via ultrasound-assisted extraction, while antimicrobial properties were most pronounced in knits treated with hydroalcoholic extracts, particularly those derived from assisted methods. The UV protection was enhanced in extracts with higher ethanol concentrations obtained through ultrasound-assisted extraction, with these knits exhibiting the highest Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF). This research not only highlights the efficacy of the alternative extraction technologies but also offers valuable insights for the development of innovative, biocompatible materials with enhanced bioactive properties for diverse applications in the textile and healthcare sectors, paving the way for sustainable applications. Full article

Background/Objectives: The use of natural colourants is gaining attention due to their biocompatibility and functional benefits. This study introduces a different approach using turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) dye extract combined with chitosan to significantly enhance the antibacterial and UV-shielding properties of silk. Methods: The turmeric dye’s chemical composition was analyzed using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS), UV–visible spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The dyed silk’s colourfastness was tested through rubbing, washing, and light exposure. Results: The chitosan-mordanted silk showed strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), as well as antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger (A. niger). It also demonstrated a high ultraviolet protection factor (UPF). For comparison, alum-mordant was used, and chitosan proved more effective. Beyond its use as a dye, turmeric is renowned for its medicinal properties. Its antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory properties have been extensively researched, which are primarily linked to its curcuminoid compounds. Turmeric is used in traditional medication to treat digestive issues, arthritis, and skin diseases. Conclusions: This work underscores the innovative use of plant-based dye extracts and natural mordants like chitosan as a sustainable alternative to conventional metallic mordants, paving the way for the evolution of bioactive silk with improved functional properties. Full article

Para-aramid fibers, known for their remarkable strength and thermal stability, are frequently employed in protective textiles for military and aerospace applications. However, continuous exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation can damage their protective characteristics. This study analyzes the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) and UV transmittance of woven fabrics produced from 30/2 Ne spun para-aramid yarns in the warp and 10 Ne core-spun yarns in the weft. The weft yarns consisted of three sheath fibers—para-aramid, meta-aramid, and polyester—in combination with different specialty core materials. The results show significant differences in UPF before and after UV exposure, with para-aramid sheaths giving the highest improvement. UV exposure caused structural changes in the fibers, resulting in increased UV protection, particularly in fabrics with para-aramid sheaths. This study concludes that the combination of para-aramid fibers with specific core materials significantly enhances UV protection, making them well-suited for applications in high UV exposure environments. Full article

The inclusion of particles in a polymeric substrate to achieve certain properties is a well-known practice. In the case of textile substrates, this practice may deeply affect the structure of the produced yarns, as even a filament with no textile applications can be obtained. In this manuscript, titanium dioxide (TiO₂) particles were incorporated into polyester (PET) chips and the influence of these fillers on the properties of yarn and fabric, and the ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) was assessed. For this purpose, rutile and anatase crystalline forms of TiO₂, as well as the size of the particles, were evaluated. Moreover, parameters such as mechanical properties, orientation of the macromolecules and thermal behavior were analyzed to ensure that the textile grade is maintained throughout the production process. The results showed that the inclusion of micro- and nanoparticles of TiO₂ decreases the molecular weight and tenacity of PET. Also, although orientation and crystallinity varied during the textile process, the resulting heatset fabrics did not present important differences in those parameters. Finally, the attainment of textile-grade PET-TiO₂ fabrics with UPF indexes of 50+ with both rutile and anatase and micro- and nano-sized TiO₂ forms was demonstrated. Full article

Natural dyes derived from plants offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic dyes for textile coloration. This study examined the extraction of natural dyes from Conocarpus erectus L. leaves and their application on wool and silk fabrics. Aqueous extraction in an alkaline medium was used to obtain dyes from raw leaves, which were then applied to pre-mordanted silk and wool fabrics by applying the ultrasonic-assisted exhaust dyeing method. The dyed fabrics were evaluated for color strength (K/S) and CIELAB color coordinates. The color fastness (washing, rubbing, and light), ultraviolet protection factor, mosquito repellency, and antibacterial activity were established using standard testing protocols. The surface morphologies of silk and wool were examined using scanning electron microscopy. Interestingly, the dyed fabrics displayed good color strength and color fastness properties. Moreover, the dyed wool samples revealed satisfactory antibacterial activity against Gram-negative (E. coli) and Gram-positive (S. aureus) in both qualitative and quantitative assessment methods, good ultraviolet protection in terms of UPF, and good mosquito repellency against Aedes aegypti. This study for the first time presented the application of a medicinal plant (Conocarpus erectus L.) in the field of textile dyeing and finishing. Hence, the use of Conocarpus erectus L. leaf dyes offers significant results on wool and silk fabrics and contributes to sustainable functional textile production. Full article

Multifunctional biofilms with early fire-warning capabilities are highly necessary for various indoor and outdoor applications, but a rational design of intelligent fire alarm films with strong weather resistance remains a major challenge. Herein, a multiscale hierarchical biofilm based on lignocellulose nanofibrils (LCNFs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and TiO₂ was developed through a vacuum-assisted alternate self-assembly and dipping method. Then, an early fire-warning system that changes from an insulating state to a conductive one was designed, relying on the rapid carbonization of LCNFs together with the unique electronic excitation characteristics of TiO₂. Typically, the L-CNT-TiO₂ film exhibited an ultrasensitive fire-response signal of ~0.30 s and a long-term warning time of ~1238 s when a fire disaster was about to occur, demonstrating a reliable fire-alarm performance and promising flame-resistance ability. More importantly, the L-CNT-TiO₂ biofilm also possessed a water contact angle (WCA) of 166 ± 1° and an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) as high as 2000, resulting in excellent superhydrophobicity, antifouling, self-cleaning as well as incredible anti-ultraviolet (UV) capabilities. This work offers an innovative strategy for developing advanced intelligent films for fire safety and prevention applications, which holds great promise for the field of building materials. Full article

Protective clothing in gas and oil industries requires high-performance characteristics, with superior anti-static and ultraviolet (UV) protection and good thermal wear comfort in cold weather regions. This study examined the manufacturing and properties of various ceramic-embedded composite fabrics made from a new scheme (not a coating method) for protective clothing in the gas and oil industries. Therefore, sheath–core yarn specimens embedded with various ceramics, such as aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃)–graphite, zinc oxide–zirconium (ZnO–ZrC), and zinc oxide–antimony tin oxide (ZnO–ATO) were produced using a bi-component melt spinning machine, which is a novel method that was not tried before. Fabric specimens were also made from these ceramic-embedded sheath–core yarn specimens. UV-protection and anti-static properties of the ceramic-embedded composite specimen were compared with the thermal radiation and far-infrared (FIR) characteristics. The UV-protection factor (UPF) was measured according to the AS/NZ 4399 (1996) standard. ATLAS measuring equipment was used to analyze five duplicate specimens (4 × 8 cm). An anti-static assessment was also conducted using the JIS L 1094 standard method. A light heat emission apparatus was used to assess thermal radiation. A 10 × 10 cm specimen was prepared, and five duplicate assessments were conducted. Statistical analysis (F-test) was performed to verify the statistical significance of the experimental data with a 99% confidence limit. The ZnO–ATO-embedded composite fabric exhibited greater UV protection than the Al₂O₃–graphite-embedded and regular (control) specimen, indicating the excellent UV-protection property of the ZnO. In addition, the ZnO–ATO-embedded composite specimen exhibited excellent anti-static properties with lower rub-static voltage than the control fabric, which was attributed to the better electrical conductivity of ATO particles. In particular, the ZnO–ZrC-embedded composite specimen showed superior thermal radiation with excellent UPF and relatively good anti-static characteristics. Based on the high-performance characteristics of protective clothing worn in gas and oil industries, ZnO–ATO-embedded composite fabric has practical use for fabricating workwear protective clothing. In addition, considering protective clothing suitable for cold weather, ZnO–ZrC-embedded composite fabric is useful for protective clothing in cold weather regions. Full article

In the present study, a hybrid cotton fabric with an enhanced ultraviolet (UV) shielding property was developed by coating with functionally activated nanocarbon (FACN) which was grafted by polyaniline (PANI) using in situ polymerization. In light of this, Teff hay biomass was used to establish the activated nanocarbon (ANC), that was subsequently given a surface functionalization using a silane coupling agent. Using the response surface (RSM) statistical analysis, the study was optimized for the weight percent of ANC and PANI with respect to the cotton fabric that was found to offer remarkable UV protection, with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 64.563, roughly 17 times more than that of primitive cotton (UPF = 3.7). The different characterization techniques, such as UV absorption, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and thermal behavior studies were investigated. In addition, the basic textile properties on optimized hybrid material were found to be appreciably increased. The results suggested that activated FACN made from Teff hay could be an effective alternative organic source material for developing UV protective hybrid cotton fabrics. Full article

Ultraviolet (UV)-protective and antimicrobial cotton fabrics are necessary for the protection of our skin. In this article, a pyrimidinethione hydrazide (PTH) derivative ligand was complexed with Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, and Cd as divalent metals and Fe and Cr as trivalent metals to prepare highly antimicrobial and UV-blocking metal–pyrimidinethione hydrazide-modified cotton fabrics (M-PTH-C). The cotton sample treated (M-PTH) was found to show improved efficiency over pyrimidinethione hydrazide-modified cotton (PTH-C). Cadmium-PTH-C showed the highest performance of antimicrobial action against Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive bacteria), Escherichia Coli (Gram-negative bacteria), and Candida albicans (fungi) with zones of inhibition 31 mm, 18 mm, and 27 mm, respectively. Furthermore, all M-PTH-C samples showed no effect against Candida albicans, except Co, Ni, and Cd pyrimidinethione hydrazide-modified cotton with inhibition zones of 16 mm, 27 mm, and 22 mm. In addition, no compounds showed any activity against Aspergillus flavus except Cd-PTH-C, which gave an excellent performance, with a 33 mm inhibition zone. Furthermore, most modified cotton fabrics have excellent UV protection. Fe-PTH-C showed 113.3 as the highest Ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) compared to the other modified samples. The tensile strength test of all samples was also investigated. The values of tensile strength for the treated cotton samples are slightly affected compared to the untreated ones. Full article