Functionalization of cellulose fibers alongside growth of 2D LDH platelets through urea hydrolysis inspired Taro wettability

Abstract

Here, Cotton fabric was functionalized via hybrid coating including 2D MgAl LDH (layered double hydroxide) and SA (stearic acid). The urea hydrolysis was employed for construction of vertically aligned LDH on surface of cellulose fibers under hydrothermal condition. The in situ formation mechanism of LDH on cotton surface was nucleation, growth, and interaction with activated cellulose chains. The partial cellulose ionization in the alkaline solution led to nucleophilic behavior towards electron deficient atom. The effect of different ageing, synthesis temperature, and amount of SA were investigated and optimized at 100 °C for 24 h with 0.05 M. The superhydrophobic surface architecture of treated cotton with hierarchical micro/nanostructure was inspired from the Taro leaf structure with continuous contact line presented WCA of 154 ° and CAH of 9 °. The Cotton@LDH@SA exhibited efficient oil/water separation after several washes (>90%) with good stain resistant. Also, the physico-mechanical properties were studied.