Fabrication of photoluminescent electrically conductive and flame-retardant cellulose fabric incorporating polyaniline/strontium aluminate nanocomposite for a plethora of useful applications

Abstract

The pad dry cure method was used to coat linen fibers with a smart nanocomposite that has photoluminescence, electrical conductivity, flame resistance, and hydrophobic properties. Environmentally benign silicone rubber (RTV) was utilized to encapsulate rare-earth activated strontium aluminate nanoparticles (RESAN; 10–18 nm), polyaniline (PANi) and ammonium polyphosphate (APP) into linen surface. The flame resistance of the treated linen fabrics was evaluated for their self-extinguishing capabilities. The flame-retardant qualities of linen were retained for 24 washings. Additionally, the superhydrophobicity of the treated linen has markedly improved upon increasing the concentration of RESAN. The colorless luminous film deposited onto linen surface was excited at 365 nm and emitted a wavelength of 518 nm. In accordance with the results of CIE (Commission internationale de l'éclairage) Lab and luminescence analysis, the photoluminescent linen gave rise to diverse colors, including off-white in daylight, green beneath UV radiation and greenish-yellow in a darkened room. The treated linen displayed sustained phosphorescence, as evidenced by decay time spectroscopy. The bending length and air permeability of linen were evaluated for their mechanical and comfort assessment. Finally, the coated linens exhibited remarkable antibacterial activity along with strong UV protection.