Achieving Intrinsically Self-Healing Fabrics with Breathability, Surface Self-Repairing, and Underwater Adhesion via Nanoparticle-Polymer Gel Synergistic Coatings

Abstract

Self-healing fabrics have attracted increasing attention as a sustainable solution to extend fabric lifespan and reduce material waste. However, most reported self-healing fabrics rely on extrinsic systems with limited healing cycles, or intrinsic polymers that compromise breathability due to irreversible layer adhesion. In this work, a simple and scalable dip-coating method is reported to fabricate intrinsically self-healing fabrics that retain their porous structure and air permeability. Commercial fabrics are coated with surface-modified silica nanoparticles (SiNPs) and a polymeric ionic gel (PIG) composed of poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) and ionic liquid ([EMI]+[TFSI]−). The SiNPs enhance coating durability and hydrophobicity, while the PIG enables intrinsic self-healing via ion–dipole interactions. The resulting fabrics exhibit rapid and repeatable self-healing at room temperature, even underwater, while maintaining breathability and repellency to various liquids. Furthermore, the PIG solution can be applied as a reversible adhesive or touch fastener, highlighting its multifunctionality. This study provides a versatile platform for the development of smart textiles with enhanced durability, self-healing, and customizable adhesion properties.