Preparation and Properties Evaluation of Photocatalytic Self-Cleaning Aramid Fabric Based on SiO2-TiO2-Fe Composite Aerogels

Abstract

Because of the fire scene belonging to the coexistence of mud, ash, oil, and other stains, fire clothing is easy to stain, and frequent washing also reduces the protective performance of clothing and even shortens service life. To improve the self-cleaning properties of aramid fabric, N,N-dimethyl hexamide (DMAC), butyl titanate, tetraethoxysilane, butyl ferrate, polydimethylsiloxane, and N-hexane were prepared and mixed on the surface of the fabric. And the surface morphology, self-cleaning, and flame retardancy of fabric before and after treatment were systematically investigated. The results showed that compared with the untreated fabric, the surface of the treated fabric had a rough microstructure; PDMS/SIO2-TIO2-Fe composite was uniformly coated on the surface of the aramid fabric by the one-step spraying method. The flame retardancy decreased slightly but remained within the standard requirement of the B1 grade. The self-cleaning and anti-fouling properties of the finished aramid fabric were improved obviously. The results provided a theoretical basis for the preparation of high-performance fire-fighting fabrics with the advantages of water-saving, energy-saving, reducing the amount of chemical detergent and being friendly to the environment. The utility model reduced the economic loss and the waste of resources because of the decrease in the function of the fire-fighting clothing caused by the washing and the elimination to a certain extent.