TiO2 nanowire and TiO2 nanowire doped Ag-PVP nanocomposite for antimicrobial and self-cleaning cotton textile

Abstract

The TiO2 nanowire (TiO2 Nw) was successfully prepared via hydrothermal method through TiO2 nanoparticle (TiO2 Np). TiO2 Np doped silver and TiO2 Nw doped silver were prepared via photo-reducing Ag+ ions to Ag metal on the TiO 2 Np or TiO2 Nw surfaces. The prepared nanomaterials were evaluated using X-ray (XRD) diffraction pattern, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Bleached untreated cotton fabric and PVP treated cotton fabrics were coated with the synthesized nanomaterials using pad-dry-cure method. Photocatalytic activity of untreated and coated cotton fabrics with TiO2 nanomaterials was investigated through the fabric self cleaning of MB dye stains. Also, the PVP finished cotton fabric modified by nanomaterials demonstrated antimicrobial activity against Gram positive bacteria, Gram negative bacteria and fungi. The mechanical properties of coated cotton fabric (tear strength, surface roughness, tensile strength and elongation at break) were examined. © 2012 Elsevier Ltd.