TiO2/PDMS hybrid system for constructing superhydrophobic surfaces of cotton fabrics with resistance to droplet adhesion

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to produce a superhydrophobic fabric surface with a layered rough structure and which are resistant to droplet adhesion. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) systems doped with stearic acid modified titanium dioxide (SA-TiO2) nanoparticles was sprayed onto the surface of cotton fabric. Design/methodology/approach This experiment therefore uses a simple method to prepare superhydrophobic textiles by spraying SA-TiO2 particles mixed with PDMS onto the surface of cotton fabrics. The effects of the ratio of stearic acid to TiO2, spraying times and tension on the apparent morphological structure and hydrophobic properties of the cotton fabric were investigated. Findings The results showed that the stearic acid-modified TiO2 nanoparticles were hydrophobic and more uniformly dispersed in the PDMS solution. When the modification ratio of stearic acid to TiO2 was 3:5, the water contact angle of cotton fabric was 155.48° and sliding angle was 6.67° under the applied tension for three times of spraying, showing superhydrophobicity. The fabric shows super hydrophobic and anti-adhesive properties to a wide range of liquids such as cola, dyeing liquids, tea, milk and simulated blood. The surface tension of the liquid shows a negative correlation with its adhesion to the fabric. Research limitations/implications The SA-TiO2 and PDMS were applied to the fabric surface by spraying, which not only gave the fabric superhydrophobic properties, but also created anti-adhesion to a wide range of droplets. Practical implications The superhydrophobic cotton fabrics prepared by this method showed good anti-adhesive behavior to common stains and simulated blood and can be used in the development of medical protective textiles. Originality/value Modification of TiO2 with stearic acid to prepare SA-TiO2 with excellent hydrophobic properties, which was mixed with PDMS to make suspensions. Fluorine-free superhydrophobic fabrics were prepared by spraying method. It also exhibited excellent anti-adhesive properties against blood, providing a reference for the preparation of self-cleaning and anti-adhesive surgical gowns.