13 - Functional modification of fiber surface via sol–gel technology

Abstract

This chapter provides a general review to prepare functional sols by doping functional materials in the sol matrix and modify the fabric substrate via sol–gel technology. Combining chemical and physical modifications offers unlimited potential for the development and application of hybrid sol coatings that can be used for functional or smart textiles. The authors focus on hydrophobic and oleophobic properties with silane coupling agents containing a hydrophobic chain, an anti-ultraviolet modification using a titanium dioxide (TiO2) hybrid sol, antibacterial finishing using a cationic or TiO2 hybrid sol, and color fixation through a functional silane coupling agent hybrid sol. This method could shorten the treatment process, reduce pollution and energy, and provide a novel dyeing and finishing method, and will present broader applications for functional or smart textiles in the future.