Synthesis and properties of cotton fabrics modified with polypyrrole

Abstract

Hygienic antistatic cotton fabrics have been developed with applications in antistatic carpets, filters and hygienic hospital apparels. Cotton fabrics have been impregnated with conducting polymer, viz:- polypyrrole in various ratios. These fabrics show improved electrical conduction by about 3 - 8 orders of magnitude. Since the electrical conduction required for antistatic applications is only marginal, small amounts of these conducting polymers were found to be sufficient to give good antistatic properties. Also these fabrics were tested for their antimicrobial properties, which were found to be very good. These fabrics have also been demonstrated to be useful as heating pads and carpets.