Atmospheric plasma technology for sustainable wet processing of textiles

Abstract

Nowadays, the preservation of the environment is one of the top priorities of scientists and researchers which drives them to innovate and develop eco-friendly methods and processes. The textile industry is considered one of the most water consumption industries due to the water they need for preparation and finishing operations. The wet processing of textiles is a complex and resource-intensive stage in the textile supply chain. While it allows for the creation of vibrant and functional textiles, it has associated environmental challenges, such as water pollution, chemical usage, and high energy consumption. In response to these challenges, sustainable alternatives like atmospheric plasma technology are being explored to reduce the environmental impact of wet processing in the textile industry. For textile fields of application, fundamentally only 'cold plasma' and in particular the corona and glow discharge are of interest. Plasma treatment generally takes place in dry conditions; thus, the fibres are not swollen. The changes in properties induced by plasma treatment are therefore restricted to the surface only.This review aims to highlight the effects of plasma treatment technology on textiles and the potentiality of considering it as an alternative to conventional wet processing (desizing, bleaching, etc.). Types of plasma, techniques, applications, advantages, and disadvantages are mentioned. The water consumption and the environmental impact are discussed.Plasma modification of textiles saves large quantities of water, chemicals, and electrical energy, which is made possible since the plasma process does not produce large volumes of waste or toxic by-products.