Multifunctional properties of polyester fabrics modified by corona discharge/air RF plasma and colloidal TiO ₂ nanoparticles

Abstract

Abstract In this study the possibility of tailoring the textile nanocomposite materials based on the polyester fabric and TiO 2 nanoparticles that can simultaneously provide desirable level of antibacterial activity, UV protection, and self‐cleaning effects with long‐term durability was investigated. To enhance the binding efficiency of colloidal TiO 2 nanoparticles, the surface of polyester fabrics was activated by low‐pressure RF air plasma, and corona discharge at atmospheric pressure. Obtained functionalized textile materials provided maximum antibacterial efficiency against gram‐negative bacterium E. coli . High values of UV protection factor (UPF) indicate the maximum UV blocking efficiency (50+) of these fabrics. The results of self‐cleaning test with blueberry juice stains and photodegradation of methylene blue in aqueous solution confirmed excellent photocatalytic activity of TiO 2 nanoparticles deposited on the fiber surface. POLYM. COMPOS., 2011. © 2010 Society of Plastics Engineers