Surface coatings of TiO2 nanoparticles onto the designed fabrics for enhanced self-cleaning properties

Abstract

Herein, the hydrophobic and self-cleaning properties of three different fabric surfaces have been evaluated after applying titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanofinishes. The nanoparticles were prepared by sol-gel techniques and were characterized by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS) methods. The ultra-refined particles were applied over three different fabric substrates having similar weave of Z-twill (3/1). The yarns of 100% polyester, blend of viscose with mod-acrylic and high performance polyethylene containing 16 yarn count (Ne) and 31.496 and 15.748 ends/cm and picks/cm, respectively, were used for required fabric preparation. The different fabric structures were applied with self-cleaning finish of TiO2 nanoparticles prepared in our laboratory and the results were compared with commercially available finish Rucoguard AFR. The static contact angles, UV-protection factor, air permeability and hydrophobic activity of nanofinished fabric helped in evaluating their breathability and self-cleaning properties.