New Features of Silver/Zinc Loaded Nanocomposite Textiles; Dyeability, Abrasion Resistance and Comfort

Abstract

This paper investigates the effect of nanoparticles on some new features of silver/zinc loaded nanocomposite fabrics. These fabrics have been fabricated from continuous nanocomposite multifilament yarns produced on a pilot plant melt spinning process with the take-up speed of 2000 m.min-1. According to the results, the dyeability of nanocomposite fabrics with acidic dyes increased as compared to the pure PP. The electrostatic interaction between negatively charged group of acidic dye molecules and positively charged silver nanoparticles can improve dyeability. The results indicated close relationship between the abrasion resistance of fabrics and tensile properties of produced yarns including tenacity, modulus, and rupture work. The results also showed the increasing of the water vapor permeability at temperatures above 25 oC and decreasing permeability at temperatures below 25 oC for nanocomposite fabrics containing 0.1 wt% silver/zinc. This simplifies removing of body heat and sweat and consequently offers more comfort for garment, tent, curtain, etc. at temperatures above 25oC. On the other hand, lower vapor permeability at a low temperature protects the body from cool weather through preventing loss of the body heat and weather flow. This nanocomposite fabric can smartly adapt the permeability with human body requirements by changing the environment temperatures.