Multifunctional Nonwoven Polypropylene Fabric loaded with (Cu2O/Ag) Nanocomposites for Potential Industrial Applications

Abstract

Nanotechnology are continuously employed to produce textiles with functional properties such as antimicrobial activity and ultraviolet (UV) protection. Cuprous oxide/silver (Cu2O/Ag) nanocomposites were in situ prepared onto nonwoven PP fabric by chemical reduction method. This method is in good agreement with ecofriendly, simplicity and cost-effectiveness concepts. The morphology of PP/Cu2O/Ag nanocomposites was observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The obtained PP nanocomposites were characterized using energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Antibacterial activity of PP/Cu2O/Ag nanocomposites were evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria. UV protection factor (UPF) and electrical conductivity were measured. Thermal properties including thermogravimetric analysis TGA, derivative thermogravimetry (DTG) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were studied. Color properties were determined before and after treatment. The obtained results of SEM, EDX and XRD clearly emphasized the successful formation and incorporation of Cu2O/Ag NPs onto the surface of PP fibers. It is found that PP/Cu2O/Ag nanocomposites have excellent bactericidal effect and UV protection. The treatment has not significantly affect the thermal properties of PP. Furthermore, electrical conductivity of PP/Cu2O/Ag nanocomposites has slightly increased compared to untreated PP fabric. The prepared PP/Cu2O/Ag nanocomposites with multifunctional properties can be useful in developing different industrial products, for example, filters, geotextiles, automotive, medical and hygienic products, etc.