Ecofriendly multi-functional finishing of synthetic fabrics and their applications

Abstract

At the beginning of the 20th century, synthetic fibers have received a great attention compared to natural fibers. They have many industrial applications due to their low cost and knowhow productions. Because of their low moisture regain, the application of synthetic fibers in Textiles industry was limited at the beginning of their production. But, for the above reason, researches have worked to improve these properties. In this study, synthetic fabrics (PA6, PP and PET) were finished with eco-friendly compounds to increase hydrophilicity, antibacterial and antifungal activity for these fabrics. In addition, to prevent static charges formation and fires and protection of human skin from UV radiation. I- Synthesis, characterization and uses of quaternary ammonium salts surfactants (QAS) as cationic finishing agents for synthetic fabrics Synthetic fabrics such as PP, PET and PA6 were finished with the following QAS compounds: a) Commercial QAS [1], N, N, N-trimethylhexadecyl-1-ammonium bromide (Cetyltrimethylammonium bromide) (Fig. 1)

Fig. 1 Chemical structure of QAS [1]