Simultaneous coloration and functional finishing of cotton fabric using Ag/ZnO nanocomposite

Abstract

In this study, colored cotton fabric with special functions, including self‐cleaning, anti‐bacterial, and ultraviolet (UV) blocking were prepared by applying zinc oxide as a photocatalyst and using silver nanoparticles as both a novel class of colorant for coloration and an agent capable of modifying the zinc oxide nanoparticles. The homogenous distribution of Ag/ZnO nanocomposite on the fibre surface was confirmed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X‐ray mapping. X‐ray diffraction patterns showed the presence of the nanocomposite on the treated cotton fabric. The results indicated that adding silver nanoparticles to zinc oxide led to better self‐cleaning properties, even the photocatalytic activity of ZnO had no negative effect on fabric colour. Moreover, this process imparted proper anti‐bacterial properties and UV‐blocking activity to cotton fabrics.