Functionalization of wool fabric using lignin biomolecules extracted from groundnut shells

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Textile Chemistry
• Biomaterials Engineering

Background:

• Agro-industrial waste, such as groundnut shells, is rich in lignin, a valuable biomacromolecule.
• Efficient waste management and valorization are crucial for sustainable industries.
• Lignin's potential for functionalizing textiles remains underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the extraction of lignin biomolecules from groundnut shells.
• To explore the application of extracted lignin for value-addition to wool fabrics.
• To evaluate the functional properties of lignin-treated wool.

Main Methods:

• Lignin extraction from groundnut shells.
• Application of groundnut shell lignin (GSL) onto wool fabrics using metallic mordants.
• Analysis of fabric appearance via reflectance spectroscopy.
• Evaluation of functional properties: antioxidant, antibacterial, and UV protection.
• Thermal stability assessment using thermogravimetric analysis.

Main Results:

• Functionalized wool fabrics exhibited diverse shades based on GSL and mordant combinations.
• Treated fabrics demonstrated significant antioxidant activity (69.5-84.5%).
• Substantial antibacterial activity (79.7-86.3%) was observed.
• Excellent UV protection was achieved, with UPF ratings of 50+.
• Enhanced thermal stability of the functionalized wool fabrics.

Conclusions:

• Groundnut shell lignin can be effectively utilized for wool fabric functionalization.
• Metallic mordants ensure wash-fast attachment of lignin, imparting valuable properties.
• This method offers a sustainable route for waste valorization and high-performance textile development.