Construction of a bio-based macromolecular network for durable flame-retardant, superhydrophobic, and antibacterial...

Developing durable multifunctional cotton fabrics with flame retardant, hydrophobic and antibacterial activities is still a major challenge. In order to solve this problem, we engineered a robust surface-modification strategy, grafting phytic acid, vinyl trimethoxysilane, eugenol and octadecanethiol to the cotton fabric in turn. This sequential grafting strategy promotes the covalent interconnection between the components, thus forming a stable macromolecular network on the surface of the fabric. The modified cotton fabric shows excellent fire resistance, with a limiting oxygen index value of up to 42%, and has fast self-extinguishing in the vertical flammability test. In addition, the fabric shows super hydrophobicity, with a water contact angle of 151°, which can achieve effective oil-water separation. It is worth noting that after 60 laundering cycles, the LOI of modified fabric is still maintained at 28.4%, while also having long-lasting self-extinguishing and hydrophobic properties. The results of the cone calorimeter further confirm the improvement of fire safety. Compared with the original cotton fabric, the peak heat release rate and total heat release are reduced by 87.7% and 63.7% respectively. In addition, the inhibition rate of multifunctional cotton fabric against E. coli and S. aureus has also reached 99.99%. This research provides an effective and environmentally friendly method for constructing durable, high-performance multifunctional cotton fabrics.