Single and hybrid effects of nano-TiO2 and -ZnO particles on multifunctional properties of textiles

Impregnation of nano-metal oxides can provide functional properties to textiles, like UV protection and self-cleaning properties. These properties are quite important as they can provide protection against UV damage, help to reduce cleaning efforts, improve the ease of maintenance, and help to protect the water resources. The usage of nanoparticles improves multifunctional effects due to their high surface area. Therefore, in this study, nano-sized TiO2 and ZnO were applied to cotton fabrics as single type or hybrids with different concentrations to reveal their effects on multifunctional properties (UV-protection, self-cleaning, wettability, photocatalytic activity). Also, the weight and air permeability of samples were determined to evaluate their usability. Scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy were also utilized to analyze the samples. According to the results, some samples exhibited good-very good UV protection. Up to 78.5% photocatalytic degradation of organic dye was achieved by nano-TiO2 application. According to self-cleaning test results, nano-TiO2 applied samples showed yellowing after UV irradiation. Hybrid-coated samples were more advantageous regarding self-cleaning, especially against cherry juice stains. The staining and wettability results of the samples were in accordance. Weight and air permeability changes were acceptable to maintain the usage of the samples for clothing and other applications.