Multifunctional Properties of Cotton Fabrics Modified with Corona/Air RF Plasma and Colloidal TiO2 Nanoparticles

Abstract

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of corona discharge at atmospheric pressure and air RF plasma at low pressure activation of cotton fabrics prior to deposition of colloidal TiO2 nanoparticles in order to enhance antibacterial, UV protective and photocatalytic properties. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis proved the presence of TiO2 nanoparticles on the surface of cotton fibres. Atomic absorption spectroscopy measurements demonstrated that content of TiO2 in the cotton fabrics pre-treated by corona and RF plasma was 31 % higher than in the fabric that did not undergo any treatment prior to loading of TiO2 nanoparticles. In order to obtain maximum reduction of Gram-negative bacteria E. coli, untreated cotton fabric had to be loaded with colloidal TiO2 nanoparticles twice, but only once following the corona or air RF plasma pre-treatment. Loading of cotton fabrics with TiO2 nanoparticles ensured maximum UV protective rating of 50+. Excellent photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanoparticles deposited onto cotton fabrics was confirmed by photodegradation of dye methylene blue in aqueous solution under UV illumination.