Development of One‐Step Water‐Repellent and Flame‐Retardant Finishes for Cotton

Abstract

Abstract Pyrovatex is a well‐known commercial flame‐retardant which is commonly applied for cotton fibers. Unfortunately, Pyrovatex has the concern of discharging toxic formaldehyde, and additionally it necessitates formaldehyde‐based cross‐linking agents to enhance the flame retardant character and durability. Thus, formaldehyde level is considerably increased in the treated cotton fabrics. Herein, we develop a simple approach toward superhydrophobic and flame‐retardant coating for cotton fabrics. We apply one‐bath pad‐dry‐cure technique in absence of formaldehyde which is usually applied as a cross‐linker for the application and fixation of the Pyrovatex flame‐retardant. Room temperature vulcanized (RTV) silicone was employed as a formaldehyde free cross‐linking agent which allowed using Pyrovatex at lower concentration compared to commercial cross‐linkers. The flame retardancy of the fabric was improved as a result of the higher bonding of Pyrovatex with both cotton fibers and RTV which in turn was bonded to cotton fibers too. Only 150 g/L of Pyrovatex with RTV silicone introduced much better flame retardant efficiency than applying 450–500 g/L of Pyrovatex ACS alone. Furthermore, RTV silicone further improved the water‐repellent effect on the fabric surface. Washing properties of the treated cotton fabrics proved durability. The surface morphology and comfort properties of the treated cotton was explored.