Green Multifunctional Cotton Fabrics Functionalized with Plant Extracts from Azadirachta Excelsa, Piper betle and Eucalyptus globulus: Antibacterial and UV-Resistant Properties for Sustainable Textile Applications

Abstract

This study presents the fabrication of eco-friendly multifunctional cotton fabrics functionalized with bioactive plant extracts from Terminalia catappa, Piper betle and Eucalyptus globulus leaves. Extracts were obtained by Soxhlet or repeated boiling and applied to cotton via boiling impregnation under optimized conditions (25-30% concentration, 26-30 min treatment, 65-70 °C drying). FTIR and UV–Vis confirmed the presence of phenolic and flavonoid compounds on fiber surfaces. SEM revealed uniform coatings, while LC–MS/MS identified catechins, eugenol and gallic acid as dominant constituents. Treated fabrics showed excellent UV protection with UPF > 50, high hydrophobicity with water contact angles up to 122° and strong antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. Inhibition zones reached 17.4 mm (E. globulus), 15.3 mm (P. betle) and 14.6 mm (T. catappa). Thermal analysis (TGA–DTA) indicated enhanced stability, with onset degradation shifting from 295 °C (control) to 315-325 °C after treatment. Mechanical testing showed tensile strength retention with slight improvement, up to +7% in E. globulus-treated samples. Overall, this green treatment enhances cotton functionality by integrating natural bioactives, yielding fabrics with UV protection, antibacterial efficacy, hydrophobicity, and thermal stability. The approach offers a sustainable strategy for developing high-value textiles for healthcare, protective clothing and environmentally friendly smart fabrics.