Development of self‐cleaning and antibacterial properties on cotton fabric using silver nanoparticles and PFOTS

Abstract

AbstractThe demand for superhydrophobic fabric with self‐cleaning and antibacterial features as potential practical applications has been rising steadily with the passage of time. In this research work, the wet chemical method is used to manufacture cotton with a superhydrophobic coating. Thus, Nanoparticles of silver were produced by using an in situ method. Afterward, the fabric is treated with a solution of perfluorooctyltriethoxysilane to make it superhydrophobic. The cotton fabric performs remarkably with exceptional hydrophobicity as it had a contact angle of 157 ± 1° and less than 10° in sliding angle. Water droplet's dynamic behavior is also studied so that the superhydrophobic fabric development can be proven. The fabric shows excellent chemical durability by performing chemical tests. The antimicrobial and self‐cleaning properties are greatly enhanced by the superhydrophobic coating on cotton. Particle density on the superhydrophobic cotton before and after self‐cleaning was found 5.1 and 0.4 mg/cm2. In addition, the treated cotton fabric also exhibited superior antibacterial properties against Escherichia coli bacteria. Therefore, the developed multifunctional cotton fabric can be used in real‐life applications.Highlights Cotton fabric enables to repelling of dirt, oil, and water‐based stains more effectively. Silver nanoparticles possess potent antibacterial properties. Incorporation of PFOTS controls the release of silver into the environment. Versatile applications from healthcare and hospitality to outdoor and athletic apparel.