Preparation of Temperature-Sensitive Colour-Changing Materials and Their Applications to Clothing Fabrics: Taking a Compound Composed of Crystal Violet Lactone, Bisphenol A, and Octadecanol as an Example

Abstract

A compound was prepared using crystal violet lactone, bisphenol A, and octadecanol. An in-situ polymerization method was used to prepare temperature-sensitive colour-changing microcapsules. It was printed on fabrics using printing technology. The colour-changing performance of the composite material, thermal weight changes of the microcapsules, and properties of the fabric coated with microcapsules were analyzed using cases. Printed fabric properties of colour fastness to washing, rubbing, strength and colour strength (K/S) were measured in terms of binder (%), a crosslinking agent (%), and temperature variations. The results indicated that the compound gradually changed from purple to blue within the temperature range of 3 °C to 60 °C and eventually faded into a colourless state. The weight of the microcapsule powder decreased as the temperature rose, with no significant change in weight before reaching 100 °C. Between 100 °C and 200 °C, there was a rapid decrease in weight, followed by a slow decrease between 200 °C and 350 °C. After reaching 350 °C, the weight tended to stabilize. When the mass fraction of the cross-linker was 3%, the mass fraction of the binder was 25%, and the baking temperature was 120 °C, the colour fastness, fabric strength, and K/S value (colour intensity) of the cotton fabric coated with microcapsules were optimal.