Development of multi-functional cotton surface for sportswear using nano zinc oxide

Abstract

This paper reports the development of multi-functional cotton knitted fabric by two-stage process. Cotton knitted fabric was finished with in situ generated nano zinc oxide (nano-ZnO) followed by electrospraying Arkophop FFR a non-fluorocarbon-based hydrophobic chemical. Electrospraying was carried out with different flow rates (0.01 and 0.02 mL/min) and durations (1? min) with the help of microprocessor controlled syringe pump. The fabric was analyzed for its antimicrobial, UV protective, and moisture management (MMT) properties. FTIR study confirmed the formation of hydrophobic chemical finish on one surface of cotton fabrics. Scanning electron microscope observation showed the presence of nano-ZnO and hydrophobic finish on the electrosprayed surface of the cotton fabric. One-way moisture transport rating of the treated fabric using MMT test was found to be very good for 0.01 mL/min flow rate of the hydrophobic chemical for duration of 3 min using an optimized voltage of 20 kV and the distance of 15 cm between the nozzle and the collector. In situ generated nano-ZnO positively influenced the MMT properties of the treated cotton fabric.