UV Protection Properties Research Articles

Investigation of antibacterial property of functionalized polypropylene nonwoven fabrics by S–N Co-doped nano-TiO2 films

This study focused on the antibacterial and ultraviolet protection properties of the functionalized polypropylene nonwoven fabrics (PPNWF). Sulfur and nitrogen co-doped titanium dioxide (S–N–TiO2) sol was synthesized by sol–gel method and S–N–TiO2 films were coated on the surface of PPNWF with impregnating method. The tensile strength, mass per unit area, thickness, whiteness, and glossiness of the prepared simples were investigated. The ultraviolet protection properties of the samples were assessed by ultraviolet transmittance spectrum and Ultraviolet Protection Facto. The results show that ultraviolet protection properties, tensile strength, and mass per unit area of the functionalized fabrics increase whereas its whiteness and glossiness decrease. The structural analysis and chemical composition of S–N–TiO2 were made by X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, which indicate the successful doping of S and N into TiO2. The results of Fourier transform infrared spectrometer and scanning electron microscopy show that S–N–TiO2 nano-films have been well dispersed on the surface of the PPNWF, which is beneficial to the ultraviolet protection property and antibacterial activity of the samples. The antibacterial activities were evaluated by shake flask method. It is found that the S–N–TiO2 nano-films coated PPNWF (S–N–TiO2/PPNWF) exhibit excellent antibacterial activities against both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, and the antibacterial rate of 96.8% and 98.4% against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, respectively. After 50 cycles of consecutive laundering, the antibacterial rates remain over 85.48% and 84.4% for Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, respectively. It indicates that the antibacterial performance of the S–N–TiO2/PPNWF fabrics is also durable.

Three-in-one: Saturated, UV-protective and anti-bacterial structural colored textiles

Structural color based textiles have attracted significant attention owing to their potential in facilitating environmentally-friendly and durable coloration processes. However, the improvement of color saturation in textiles based on structural color is still under continuous investigation. Additionally, there is a rising demand for textiles featuring specialized functionalities such as anti-bacteria and anti-ultraviolet properties in daily life. In this study, a “three-in-one” amorphous photonic structure (APS) and multi-functional textile design is performed to achieve high structural color saturation, UV protection, and anti-bacteria properties. In this system, poly(styrene-butyl acrylate-methacrylate) (P(St-BA-MAA)) colloidal particles are used as building blocks, black titanium dioxide (TiO2) is used as black dopant, and water-soluble polyurethane (WPU) is used as the binder. The WPU demonstrates a significant capability to enhance the color fastness of APS/TiO2 textiles. The strong absorption of incoherent scattered light by black TiO2 in the visible range plays a crucial role in achieving a highly saturated APS-based textile. In addition, the doped black TiO2 possesses strong UV–visible light absorption and anti-bacterial capabilities, thereby supporting the development of textiles functionalized with UV protection and anti-bacteria. Our proposed simplified approach to fabricating high color saturation and functionalized APS/TiO2 textiles demonstrates significant potential for eco-textile coloring in line with market demands.

Agricultural waste Ipomoea batatas leaves for low-temperature dyeing and functional finishing of polyester fabrics

The increasing focus on eco-friendly textiles and cleaner production manufacturing techniques have made natural pigments for coloring and enhancing the functionality of textiles become a popular trend. This research aimed to extract plant pigment from bio-waste Ipomoea batatas leaves and utilize it for dyeing and functional decoration of polyester fabric at low temperature. The study optimized the parameters for pigment extraction and fabric dyeing and also investigated the stability of the pigment solution. The finding indicated that strong acids and bases, intense light, high temperatures, and oxidants have a greater impact on pigment stability. Observation and analysis using SEM, bio-optical microscope, FTIR, and UV–vis–NIR absorption spectroscopy revealed that chlorophyll pigment entered into the interior of polyester molecular chains through hydrophobic end intercalation and was retained by the physical forces, enabling low-temperature coloring and functional finishing of polyester fabrics. As a result, the polyester fabrics dyed with natural pigment exhibited excellent resistance to rubbing, washing, saliva, and perspiration (rated at level 4 or higher), except for the average light fastness (only grade 4). Additionally, the dyed polyester fabrics demonstrated outstanding UV resistance (UPF of 33.57 for raw polyester and 120.77 for pre-mordant dyed polyester) and antibacterial properties (raw polyester agar plates showed bacterial growth, while the colored polyester agar plates had almost no bacterial growth). Even after 10 wash cycles, the dyed polyester fabrics maintained their UV protection and antibacterial properties. This research is expected to provide a new approach to the valuable utilization of agricultural residues in the textile industry.

Boron nitride quantum dots/polyvinyl butyral nanocomposite films for the enhanced photoluminescence and UV shielding properties

AbstractThe present investigation focused on the effect of boron nitride quantum dots (BNQDs) as a filler on the optical properties of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) nanocomposites. Herein, polymer nanocomposite films with advanced UV protection and high photoluminescence properties were successfully synthesized. Polymer nanocomposite films were produced by adding BNQDs to the polymer in different ratios by a simple solution forming and casting method. The films were decomposed at different UV degradation times, and their UV protective properties were tested. The structural, morphological, optical and chemical interaction of BNQDs/PVB nanocomposites was confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), micro‐Raman spectroscopy, ultraviolet and visible (UV–Vis), and photoluminescence (PL) analyzes. As the amount of BNQDs in the polymer increased, the intensity of the bright images separated from the polymer also increased. TEM images confirmed the good distribution of quantum dots in PVB polymer matrix. Polymer composites doped with 0.25% and 0.4% BNQDs show excellent UV‐shielding properties as the transmittance in the UV region decreased about 69% and 95%, respectively. As the addition of BNQDs into the polymer increased, the PL emission of the pure PVB film, which showed almost no emission, increased significantly.

Cutting-edge developments in zinc oxide nanoparticles: synthesis and applications for enhanced antimicrobial and UV protection in healthcare solutions.

This paper presents a comprehensive review of recent advancements in utilizing zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) to enhance antimicrobial and UV protective properties in healthcare solutions. It delves into the synthesis techniques of ZnO NPs and elucidates their antimicrobial efficacy, exploring the underlying mechanisms governing their action against a spectrum of pathogens. Factors impacting the antimicrobial performance of ZnO NPs, including size, surface characteristics, and environmental variables, are extensively analyzed. Moreover, recent studies showcasing the effectiveness of ZnO NPs against diverse pathogens are critically examined, underscoring their potential utility in combatting microbial infections. The study further investigates the UV protective capabilities of ZnO NPs, elucidating the mechanisms by which they offer UV protection and reviewing recent innovations in leveraging them for UV-blocking applications in healthcare. It also dissects the factors influencing the UV shielding performance of ZnO NPs, such as particle size, dispersion quality, and surface coatings. Additionally, the paper addresses challenges associated with integrating ZnO NPs into healthcare products and presents future perspectives for overcoming these hurdles. It emphasizes the imperative for continued research efforts and collaborative initiatives to fully harness the potential of ZnO NPs in developing advanced healthcare solutions with augmented antimicrobial and UV protective attributes. By advancing our understanding and leveraging innovative approaches, ZnO NPs hold promise for addressing pressing healthcare needs and enhancing patient care outcomes.

Funkcionalizacija tekstilnih materijala korišćenjem premaza i pigmenata koji sadrže bakar

Copper is one of the most used industrial metals. Also, copper containing compounds have high importance in everyday life. The use of copper and its compounds for textile treatment and functionalization is possible by using a broad range of different methods; as e.g. electrodeposition, plasma deposition, spin-doping with copper containing pigment or dye applications using copper salts as mordants or complexing agents. This actual report focusses especially on the use of copper containing pigments applied as part of a coating or a print onto textile surfaces. A general introduction into different types of copper compounds is given. Examples are given for the application of coatings containing copper effect pigments, gold bronze, elemental copper pigments and copper oxide particles. Related to effect pigments, especially silver coated copper pigments are introduced. According to sol-gel applications for textile functionalization, the in-situ preparation of copper oxide nanoparticles on textile surfaces is discussed. Following an overview on possible functionalization as result of the copper application is given. Antimicrobial and antistatic properties are discussed and presented with examples. The determined effects in this field are significant but less compared to analogous functionalization using silver as functional compound. A view on optical modifications and realized UV-protective properties is given. Finally, it can be stated that copper containing materials can be helpful tools to functionalize textile materials and surfaces in a broad range.

The structural characterization and UV-protective properties of an exopolysaccharide from a Paenibacillus isolate.

Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) light is known to cause damage to the skin, leading to sunburn and photo-aging. Chemical sunscreen products may give rise to health risks including phototoxicity, photosensitivity, and photosensitivity. Natural polysaccharides have attracted considerable interests due to diverse biological activities. A novel polysaccharide isolated was purified and structurally characterized using chemical methods followed by HPLC, GLC-MS, as well as 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy. The photoprotective effect of the EPS on UVB-induced damage was assessed in vitro using cultured keratinocytes and in vivo using C57BL/6 mouse models. The average molecular weight of the EPS was 5.48 × 106Da, composed of glucose, mannose and galactose residues at a ratio of 2:2:1. The repeating units of the EPS were →3)-β-D-Glcp (1→3) [β-D-Galp (1→2)-α-D-Glcp (1→2)]-α-D-Manp (1→3)-α-D-Manp (1→. In cultured keratinocytes, the EPS reduced cytotoxicity and excessive ROS production induced by UVB irradiation. The EPS also exhibits an inhibitory effect on oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen degradation found in the photodamage in mice. 1H NMR-based metabolomics analysis for skin suggested that the EPS partly reversed the shifts of metabolic profiles of the skin in UVB-exposed mice. The EPS exhibits skin photoprotective effects through regulating oxidative stress both in vivo and in vitro. Our findings highlight that the EPS is a potential candidate in sunscreen formulations for an efficient solution to UVB radiation.

Sustainable Dyeing and Functional Finishing of Cotton Fabric by Rosa canina Extracts

This paper presents a comprehensive study on a novel ultrasound-assisted extraction process for Rosa canina, utilizing both dry and fresh fruits, and explores the potential application of Rosa canina extraction as a natural dye and functional agent for cotton fabrics. The ultrasound-assisted extraction employed different solvents, including distilled water, methanol, and a water/methanol mixture (50/50% v/v), conducted at 60 °C for 60 min. The extracted compounds were characterized through ultraviolet–visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy and high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet spectroscopy (HPLC-UV) analysis to assess the chemical composition. Textile applications were then performed using bio-mordant chitosan in a pre-mordanting process, and the treated cotton fabrics underwent analysis for surface chemistry and chemical composition using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Untreated and treated fabrics, both with and without mordant, were evaluated for their UV protection and antibacterial properties. Color measurements and dyeability properties of the extractions were also assessed. Furthermore, waste solutions from textile applications were analyzed by UV-Vis spectroscopy to investigate the potential transfer of active compounds to the fabrics. Results indicate that Rosa canina, as a plant-based extract, holds significant potential for sustainable dyeing and functional finishing of cotton fabrics.

Copper sulfide and polyelectrolyte decorated textiles for active/passive personal thermal management

The development of multifunctional textile-based personal thermal management devices is a prospective option for accurately warming the human body while effectively reducing energy consumption. However, existing multifunctional thermal management devices still face challenges in terms of high-performance integration. Here, we proposed an electrostatic-coordination-based strategy to fabricate successfully a versatile textile for body warming via sequentially covering cotton fiber with bio-based polyelectrolyte and in-situ grown copper sulfide coatings. The textiles with excellent solar/Joule heating properties and reduced infrared emissivity can efficiently heat the body in various environments and suppress thermal radiation dissipation from the body to the environment. Also, the textile realizes high-performance integration of electromagnetic shielding, UV protection, antimicrobial, and flame-retardant properties. This universal and efficient strategy provides a promising solution for the manufacture of all-day and energy-saving versatile personal thermal management devices, showing great potential for practical applications.

Enhanced far infrared emissivity, UV protection and near-infrared shielding of polypropylene composites via incorporation of natural mineral for functional fabric development

Far infrared radiation in the range of 4–20 µm has been showed to have biological and health benefits to the human body. Therefore, incorporating far-infrared emissivity additives into polymers and/or fabrics hold promise for the development of functional textiles. In this study, we incorporated nine types of natural minerals into polypropylene (PP) film and examined their properties to identify potential candidates for functional textiles and apparels. The addition of 2% mineral powders into PP film increased the far-infrared emissivity (5–14 µm) by 7.65%-14.48%. The improvement in far-infrared emissivity within the range of 5–14 µm, which overlaps with the peak range of human skin radiation at 8–14 µm, results in increased absorption efficiency, and have the potential to enhance thermal and biological effects. Moreover, the incorporation of mineral powders in PP films exhibited favorable ultraviolet (UV) protection and near-infrared (NIR) shielding properties. Two films, specifically those containing red ochre and hematite, demonstrated excellent UV protection with a UPF rating of 50+ and blocked 99.92% and 98.73% of UV radiation, respectively. Additionally, they showed 95.2% and 93.2% NIR shielding properties, compared to 54.1% NIR shielding properties of PP blank films. The UV protection and NIR shielding properties offered additional advantages for the utilization of polymer composite with additives in the development of sportswear and other outdoor garments. The incorporation of minerals could absorb near-IR radiation and re-emit them at longer wavelength in the mid-IR region. Furthermore, the incorporation of minerals significantly improved the heat retention of PP films under same heat radiation treatment. Notably, films with red ochre and hematite exhibited a dramatic temperature increase, reaching 2.5 and 3.2 times the temperature increase of PP films under same heat radiation treatment, respectively (46.8 °C and 59.9 °C higher than the temperature increase of 20.9 °C in the PP film). Films with additives also demonstrated lower thermal effusivity than PP blank films, indicating superior heat insulation properties. Therefore, polypropylene films with mineral additives, particularly those containing red ochre and hematite, showed remarkable heat capacity, UV-protection, NIR-shielding properties and enhanced far infrared emissivity, making them promising candidates for the development of functional textiles.

Hyaluronic acid/polyphenol sunscreens with broad-spectrum UV protection properties from tannic acid and quercetin

Currently, commercial sunscreens cause a number of biotoxicity and environmental issues, making it imperative to develop biocompatible alternatives. In this study, we aimed to develop an alternative sunscreen from two ecofriendly and biocompatible natural polyphenolic compounds, tannic acid (TA) and quercetin (Que). The sunscreen was prepared through a simple process using an oil-in-water emulsion as the medium and hyaluronic acid (HA) as the base polymer to improve biocompatibility. The HA/TA/Que. sunscreen prepared in this study exhibits 0 % transmittance in the UVB region and <15 % transmittance in the UVA region, resulting in excellent sun-protection properties (SPF 30). Remarkably, the as-prepared HA/TA/Que. sunscreen has a suitable viscosity and similar UV protection properties to those of commercial sunscreens. The HA/TA/Que. sunscreen also exhibits 90.4 % antioxidant activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, demonstrating an ability to effectively capture reactive oxygen species that directly affect the skin. In addition, the cell viability was >90 % at a concentration of 50 μg/mL after 7 days, indicating excellent cytocompatibility. Owing to its various advantageous features, the HA/TA/Que. sunscreen with excellent sun protection properties and multiple functionalities is expected to resolve many environmental and biological issues caused by commercial sunscreens.

Antioxidant and UV-blocking activity of PVA/tannin-based bioplastics in food packaging application

In this study, bioplastics with antioxidant and UV protection properties based on tannin and PVA were created for packaging uses. Using a hot water extraction method at various extraction temperatures (60–100 °C), tannins were removed from the bark of Acacia mangium. Tannins with the best antioxidant activity were extracted at 80 °C. In order to create bioplastic formulations (PVA/Tannins), the extract is then employed. The non-heating bioplastic method's preparation (M3) stage produced the highest levels of antioxidant activity. Therefore, subsequent tests were conducted using the non-heating method (M3). On the opacity, UV protective activity, antioxidant capacity, mechanical strength, thermal stability, and water vapor permeability of the resultant bioplastics, the impact of tannin concentration (0.1–0.5 g) was examined. The findings of the experiments demonstrate that PVA/Tannin bioplastics are less transparent than pure PVA. The PVA/tannin bioplastics that are formed, on the whole, show strong antioxidant and UV protection action. Comparing PVA/Tannin bioplastics to pure PVA also revealed a small improvement in thermal stability and tensile strength. In PVA bioplastics with resistant tannins, moisture content was marginally greater even at low tannin concentrations (0.1 g). Based on the findings, bioplastics made from PVA and the tannin A. mangium have the potential to be used to create packaging that is UV and active antioxidant resistant. It can be applied as the second (inner) layer of the primary packaging to protect food freshness and nutrition due to their antioxidant activity.

Inherent mosquito repellent-cum-multifunctional polyurethane for multifunctional coating of cotton fabric

Textile had evolved from simple apparel to multifunctional textiles due to increasing awareness and upgrading technology. For fulfilling modern demands, multifunctional textile became a vital area of exploration for textile research community, and polyurethane coated textile is a significant contributor to attain this position. The current work reports ethyl anthranilate-based durable inherent mosquito repellent polyurethane (Mos PU) with ultraviolet (UV) protective, antibacterial and waterproof-breathable properties for coating of textiles. The Mos PU was characterised using Attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) and Gel permeation chromatography (GPC) techniques. The changes in the properties of cotton fabric with the varying add-on were also studied. Thermal properties of Mos PU and coated samples were studied using thermogravimetric analysis. The functional properties of the coated cotton fabrics were also assessed against repeated laundering. The bacteria adherence and quantitative antibacterial activity tests confirmed the antibacterial effect of coated surface on different bacterial strains, gram positive S. aureus and gram negative E. coli. Moreover, the prepared coated cotton fabric showed excellent mosquito repellency (100 %), appreciable water vapour transmission rate and excellent UV protection factor (UPF rating of 50+). The functional properties of the prepared coated samples were significant even after ten launderings.

Combined application of plant extracts (tannic acid and baicalin) with acid dyes in the simultaneous dyeing and finishing of tussah silk for enhanced antioxidant, antibacterial and UV protective properties

The one-step dyeing and finishing of tussah fiber have advantages of short process, high efficiency, and energy and water saving. Additionally, to upgrade the functionalities of tussah silk fiber using natural chemicals with environmental benefits can increase its applicability. In this work, the combined application of plant extracts and acid dyes was presented for simultaneously imparting colorful shades, antioxidant activity, antibacterial activity, and UV protection capability to tussah silk. The stability of tannic acid, baicalin, and their mixtures with acid dyes was first discussed, and the colors and functionalities of dyed and finished tussah silk were evaluated. Tannic acid had less effect on the colors of dyed tussah silk. C.I. Acid Blue 113 was not stable in hot baicalin solution, and its pre-heated mixture with baicalin dyed tussah silk to dull red hue rather than blue hue. The bright blue and green colors of tussah silk were obtained by dyeing with anthraquinone and triarylmethane dyes, but their hues were affected by baicalin due to the light yellow color of baicalin and the matching of colors. Tannic acid exhibited better antibacterial property than baicalin on tussah silk, while baicalin had better antioxidant and UV protection capability than tannic acid. This work demonstrates that the one-step dyeing and finishing of tussah silk with acid dyes and plant extracts are feasible. However, special attention should be paid to the color changes of individual dyes for pale dyeing.

Antibacterial and UV protection properties of textile filaments fabricated from kraft pulp-based carboxymethylated cellulose covalently cross-linked with carbon nanotubes

Antibacterial and UV protection properties of textile filaments fabricated from kraft pulp-based carboxymethylated cellulose covalently cross-linked with carbon nanotubes

The characteristics and biological activity enhancements of melatonin encapsulations for skin care product applications

Melatonin (MLT) exhibits antioxidant, ultraviolet protection, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. However, its effectiveness is limited by instability, a short half-life, and incompatible absorption. In this research, we encapsulated melatonin (MLT) in transfersomes (MT) and niosomes (MN) to enhance their properties and investigate their effects through in vitro cell assays using murine macrophages cells and human foreskin fibroblasts cells. The vesicle morphology, vesicle size, polydispersity index, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency (EE%), attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR) spectra, along with in vitro release, permeation profiles, and stability study were also evaluated. The results showed that both encapsulations displayed spherical morphology at the nanometric scale, their great physical stability and provided an EE% range of 58–78%. The MLT incorporation into the vesicle was confirmed by the ATR-FTIR spectra. Additionally, the encapsulation’ release profiles fitted with the Higuchi model, indicating controlled release of melatonin. Furthermore, MT showed greater permeability than MN and MS including melatonin deposition. In cell assays, MT exhibited significantly higher nitric oxide inhibition and stimulation of collagen compared to MN and MS. Therefore, MT demonstrated the highest possibility for anti-inflammatory and collagen-stimulating activities that could be applied in pharmaceutical or anti-aging cosmetic products.

Sustainable polylactic acid spunlace nonwoven fabrics with lignin/zinc oxide/water-based polyurethane composite coatings

In this paper, polylactic acid spunlace nonwoven fabrics were coated with lignin/zinc oxide/water-based polyurethane composite formulations, including five different ratios of lignin and zinc oxide, via a film applicator and thermally cured. The coated and thermally cured nonwoven fabrics were tested in terms of color values, tensile strength, abrasion resistance, ultraviolet protection, hydrophobicity, antibacterial activity, air, and vapor permeability properties. Characterization studies were conducted by FTIR, DSC, TGA, XRD, and SEM. The ultraviolet protection factor of 215.47 and a water contact angle of 90.27° were obtained with the fabric coated with WPU-1:5 formulation. Nonwoven fabric coated with the WPU-1:5 formulation showed evident antibacterial activity against S. aureus and E. coli bacteria as 89 % and 100 %, respectively. With the addition of lignin/ZnO into water-based polyurethane coating paste, PLA nonwoven fabric exhibited improved antibacterial activity, tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and ultraviolet light protection performance. However, composite coatings decreased air and vapor permeability and hydrophobicity of fabrics, but acceptable results were obtained. The results indicate that polylactic acid nonwoven fabrics, when treated with lignin/ZnO/WPU composite coatings, exhibit enhanced mechanical and functional properties, rendering them promising for applications in protective medical textiles.

The UV protectant properties of tea extracts on entomopathogenic fungus spores and their lethal effect on Galleria mellonella (L., 1758) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)

The present study aims to investigate the effectiveness of various tea extracts in providing ultraviolet (UV) protection for entomopathogenic fungi. UV radiation could have detrimental effects on viability of these fungi, which are important biocontrol agents against insect pests. This study was carried out in the Microbiology Laboratory of the Department of Biology Karadeniz Technical University in 2023. We evaluated the UV protective properties of various tea extracts in entomopathogenic fungi [Beauveria bassiana (Bals.) Vuil. (Hypocreales: Cordycipitaceae) and Metharizium flavoviride (Gams and Rozsypal 1956) (Hypocreales: Clavicipitaceae)] and tea extracts effectiveness against Galleria mellonella (L.,1758) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) larvae. Our findings demonstrate that certain tea extracts exhibit significant UV protection for entomopathogenic fungi, suggesting their potential application in improving the performance of biocontrol agents in outdoor environments. The highest UV-B protection was observed by adding black and green tea extracts to fungal spores, resulting in a radial growth measurement of 14.6 mm and 14.3 mm, respectively, at the end of 10 days of exposure for 120 minutes. These results contribute to the development of eco-friendly strategies for pest management in agriculture.

Bridging phycocyanin onto silk by genipin towards durable colouristic, antioxidant and UV protective properties: A sustainable strategy for fully bio-based textile

Integrating bio-extracts with natural fabric towards fully bio-based textiles is broadly advocated that benefits customers’ health and the environment. However, promoting the durability aside from using synthetic fixer or metal mordant, and exploring new source for blue bio-colorant are two challenging issues at this stage. To address this issue, a blue bio-colorant phycocyanin (PC) and a bio-crosslinker genipin (GNP) are combined to silk for durable blue appearance and UV protective/antioxidant functions. In the presence of GNP, the PC quantity on silk dramatically increases from 23.5 to 74.4 mg/g which enhances the colour depth and functionalities of silk. Moreover, the PC/GNP treated silk achieves high ratings in the washing and rubbing tests. Those two results demonstrate the dual roles of GNP for promoting the affinity/durability of PC to/on silk. The condition, i.e., 10 % owf of PC, 1 g/L GNP, 70 °C and 3 h is recommended considering the colour strength and fastness of silk, thermal stability of PC, reactivity of GNP and effective crosslinking between PC and silk. PC (10 % owf) imparts silk with high UPF value up to 39 and scavenges over 70 % of free radicals within 60 min. Almost no strength loss occurs on silk thanks to this milder processing condition. The designed PC, GNP and silk crosslinking system expands the applicable area of silk which represents the next-generation fully bio-based silk product.

Biomineralization-Inspired Copper Sulfide Decorated Aramid Textiles via In Situ Anchoring toward Versatile Wearable Thermal Management.

Designing smart textiles for personal thermal management (PTM) is an effective strategy for thermoregulation and energy saving. However, the manufacture of versatile high-performance thermal management textiles for complex real-world environments remains a challenge due to the limitations of functional integration, material properties, and preparation procedures. In this study, an aramid fabric based on in situ anchored copper sulfide nanostructure is developed. The textile with excellent solar and Joule heating properties can effectively keep the body warm even at low energy inputs. Meanwhile, the reduced infrared emissivity of the textile decreases the thermal radiation losses and helps to maintain a constant body temperature. Impressively, the textile integrates superb electromagnetic shielding, near-complete UV protection properties, and ideal resistance to fire and bacteria. This work provides a simple strategy for fabricating multi-functional integrated wearable devices with flexibility and breathability, which is highly promising in versatile PTM applications.