Nanogels with high active β-cyclodextrin content as physical coating system with sustained release properties

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Textile Chemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Textile modification and protection are crucial for durability and functionality.
• Insecticides are often used to protect natural fibers like wool, but can be susceptible to environmental degradation.
• Nanomaterials offer novel approaches for controlled delivery and enhanced performance of active agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the use of nanogels with high beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD) content for textile modification and protection.
• To evaluate the complexation and delivery of the insecticide permethrin using these β-CD nanogels.
• To assess the efficacy and permanence of permethrin-loaded nanogels on keratin fibers against washing, UV exposure, and insect larvae.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of nanogels with covalently embedded β-CD.
• Complexation of permethrin within the β-CD nanogel structure in an aqueous environment.
• Application of permethrin-loaded nanogels onto wool fabrics and human hair.
• Testing of washing and UV fastness.
• Bioassays using Tineola bisselliella and Anthrenocerus australis larvae.

Main Results:

• Permethrin was successfully complexed and applied homogeneously onto keratin fibers using β-CD nanogels.
• Permethrin concentration on fibers was controllable by the nanogel loading.
• While permethrin was removed during washing, the β-CD nanogel complexation protected it from UV degradation.
• Insect bioassays confirmed that permethrin efficacy was maintained, protecting wool fibers from larval degradation.

Conclusions:

• β-CD functionalized nanogels provide a versatile and safe method for applying insecticides like permethrin to textiles.
• The nanogel system enhances UV stability of permethrin, although wash fastness remains a challenge.
• This approach offers effective protection for wool fibers against insect damage without compromising insecticide activity.