Innovative Multi-Protection Treatments and Free-Salt Dyeing of Cotton and Silk Fabrics

Abstract

In recent years, with the improvement of the living standard, people pay more attention to the health function of textiles that could be a shield or pathogen transmission medium. In the present work, surface cationization of cotton and silk fabrics was demonstrated by increasing the nitrogen content (N %) values. Different treatment techniques were successfully applied using chitosan, UV absorber, and reactive dye for producing multipurpose protective cotton and silk fabrics. Protective properties such as UV-blocking activity achieved a remarkable enhancement in UPF values (50+) and excellent protection. The anti-odor activity as measured by antibacterial reduction percentage was 98% for cotton and 99% for silk fabrics. Significant enhancement in dyeability values of cotton and silk fabrics are demonstrated. The durability of the treated fabrics was assessed after 30 repeated washing cycles and the treatment formulations showed sustainable UV blocking properties and anti-odor efficiency.