Investigation of UV protection, self-cleaning and dyeing properties of nano TiO2-treated poly(lactic acid) fabric

Abstract

Investigation of nano TiO2 treatment on poly(lactic acid) (PLA) fabric was conducted in this study. The treatment conditions were found to be optimal at 130°C with 20 g/L acrylic binder. Nano TiO2 exhibited a positive influence on UV protection and self-cleaning properties of PLA fabric. The degree of UV protection expressed as ultraviolet protection factor values of PLA fabric increased with nano TiO2 concentration. Moreover, self-cleaning property was also imparted to PLA fabric. The photodegradation of methylene blue stains was observed on the treated fabric. The stain fading percentage increased with nano TiO2 concentration. Nano TiO2 was also found to enhance the dyeability of PLA fiber when dyed with C.I. Disperse Red 60 and Violet 33 dyes. Higher colour strength was obtained on the nano TiO2-treated PLA fabric. Dyeing the nano TiO2-treated PLA at the boiling temperature was also compared with the untreated and dyed PLA under typical dyeing conditions. © 2016, Chemical Publishing Co. All rights reserved.