Plasma Sputtering for Fabrication of Antibacterial and Ultraviolet Protective Fabric

Abstract

In this study, we have used a DC magnetron sputtering system for creating antibacterial and ultraviolet protective cotton fabrics. A silver anode and cathode were used, and samples were placed on the anode. The cathode particles were scattered by attacking active ions, radicals, and electrons. Time of exposure and gas pressure was changed parameters of plasma. Silver particles were deposited on the both sides of cotton samples, and the antibacterial property has been developed, through sputtering of silver particles on fabric surfaces. ICP (Inductively Coupled Plasma) analysis was carried out to investigate the silver ion content on cotton fabrics. The antibacterial properties of the fabrics were connected with the presence of Ag on their surface. The antibacterial efficiency was determined by bacterial counting test. After plasma treatment, the physical and chemical properties of the fabrics were examined by surface analysis methods and textile technology tests. Also treated cotton fabrics had an excellent UV-blocking property. UPF value of the silver sputtered cotton fabric reached to 264. According to the standard, the treated cotton fabric can claim to be a “UV Protective product”. The experimental work suggests that the change in properties induced by plasma can effect an improvement in certain textile products.