Optimization of wool mothproofing with nano TiO2 using statistical analysis

Wool, with excellent characteristics, has the problem of being fed on by the moth. Until now several chemicals have been introduced for mothproofing with some limitations. In this research, an optimized mothproofing of wool has been proposed with nano TiO2 and citric acid by using Design-Expert software. Mothproofing was statistically investigated by measuring wool weight loss during feeding by the larvae of carpet beetle, Anthrenus verbasci. The analysis of variance was applied to obtain the optimum conditions for mothproofing. The damage intensity of wool fabrics was also observed with a digital camera. Further, the dyeing properties of the treated wool fabrics were examined through evaluating exhaustion of CI Acid Blue 113. Finally, the wool fabrics treated with optimized concentration of CA and 1.2% TiO2 nanoparticles indicated the best protection against moths.