ZnO/carboxymethyl chitosan bionano-composite to impart antibacterial and UV protection for cotton fabric

ZnO/carboxymethyl chitosan bionano-composite was prepared at different temperatures. ZnO/carboxymethyl chitosan bionano-composite was characterized by UV spectroscopy, FTIR and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The results obtained confirmed the formation of the bionano-composite. The mean sizes of ZnO and carboxymethyl chitosan particles were ≈28 nm and ≈100 nm, respectively. The obtained bionano-composite was used as a finishing agent for cotton fabric to impart UV protection and antibacterial properties (multifunctional finishing) to cotton fabric. The finishing was carried out using pad-dry-cure method. Cotton fabric was characterized by measuring scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), UPF ratting and antibacterial properties. Finished cotton fabric exhibits very good antibacterial properties against Gram positive and Gram negative bacteria which increased with increasing the composite concentration and also has a good UV protection which increased with increasing the temperature of curing.