Radiation-induced grafting of a reactive polyurethane onto polyester fabrics: achieving durable hydrophilicity,...

Hydrophilic modification of polyester, typically achieved through methods such as alkali treatment, can be detrimental to the environment and substantially reduces the mechanical properties. This paper proposes a novel approach: first, a vinyl-containing polyurethane hydrophilic agent (QAVPU) is synthesized; subsequently, electron beam (E-beam) irradiation is used to induce the graft polymerization of QAVPU onto the polyester substrate. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy confirmed the successful synthesis of QAVPU and its successful grafting onto polyester. The graft-modified polyester exhibited significantly improved hydrophilicity, which remained durable after long-term washing. Moreover, the grafting modification enhanced the moisture permeability of the polyester while having no significant adverse effects on its mechanical properties or air permeability. Antibacterial tests against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus demonstrated that the graft-modified polyester possesses antibacterial performance.