Development of self cleaning fabrics using cotton polyester blend
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Date
2025-08-22
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UMT Lahore
Abstract
This research presents the development and characterization of multifunctional self-cleaning and antibacterial fabrics using a 60/40 cotton–polyester blend coated with bulk zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO₂), and their hybrid (50:50) formulations. The study aims to provide a cost-effective and scalable alternative to nanoparticle-based coatings by optimizing coating composition, concentration, and binder application. The fabric, with GSM 260, 2/1 twill weave, 110 ends per inch, 60 picks per inch, and 20 twists per inch, was pre-treated through scouring and bleaching to enhance surface reactivity. Coatings were applied with and without Helizarin et binder to evaluate the influence of binder on performance. Functional assessments included air permeability, tear strength, absorbency, hydrophobicity (contact angle measurement), and antibacterial efficacy against Escherichia coli following AATCC Test Method 100. Results indicated that TiO₂ coatings preserved breathability, ZnO coatings showed minimal impact, and the hybrid coating improved permeability by 2.37% at 20 g/L. Tear strength reductions were lowest for hybrid coatings (4.1% at 40 g/L). Binder-coated samples exhibited higher hydrophobicity, while binder-free samples had improved wettability. Antibacterial reductions were 84.0% (ZnO), 84.6% (TiO₂), 86.0% (hybrid), and 87.6% (binder-assisted hybrid), highlighting synergistic effects between ZnO and TiO₂ and the role of binder in particle retention. These results confirm that bulk oxide coatings, particularly hybrid formulations, can effectively impart durable multifunctional properties without compromising comfort, making them suitable for healthcare, defense, sportswear, and outdoor applications. Future work should focus on wash durability, photocatalytic self-cleaning efficiency, and scaling for industrial production.