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Published on: June 12, 2018
Durable Flame-Retardant Silk Fabric Based on a Tannic Acid/Soy Protein Isolate/Ferrous Sulfate System
Yixiao Li1, Jiabao Wu1, Yuan Wang2
1College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Jiangsu Engineering Research Center of Textile Dyeing and Printing for Energy Conservation, Discharge Reduction and Cleaner Production (ERC), Soochow University, Suzhou215123, China.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|July 23, 2026
Summary
This study developed durable, flame-retardant silk fabric using tannic acid and soy protein. The modified fabric shows excellent flame resistance and antibacterial properties, even after multiple washes.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Textile Chemistry
- Sustainable Chemistry
Background:
- Developing sustainable flame-retardant textiles is crucial for safety and environmental concerns.
- Natural polyphenols like tannic acid offer flame-retardant potential but often lack durability.
- Existing flame-retardant treatments may compromise fabric properties or environmental impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a durable, flame-retardant, and antibacterial silk fabric using natural compounds.
- To investigate the synergistic effects of tannic acid, soy protein isolate, and ferrous sulfate on silk modification.
- To assess the flame-retardant performance, durability, and antibacterial activity of the modified silk.
Main Methods:
- A two-step impregnation method was employed using tannic acid (TA), soy protein isolate (SPI), and ferrous sulfate (Fe2+).
- Vertical burning tests and limiting oxygen index (LOI) measurements were conducted to evaluate flame resistance.
- Durability was assessed through repeated laundering cycles.
- Cone calorimetry was used to analyze heat release rates.
- Antibacterial activity was tested against relevant microorganisms.
Main Results:
- The modified silk fabric exhibited significantly improved flame resistance, with LOI reaching 27.1% under optimal conditions.
- Excellent washing durability was demonstrated, with char length remaining below 10 cm after 20 laundering cycles.
- Cone calorimeter tests showed substantial reductions in total heat release rate (THR) and peak heat release rate (pHRR).
- The synergistic action of TA, SPI, and Fe2+ promoted a stable char layer, enhancing flame retardancy.
- The modified fabric displayed notable antibacterial activity while retaining acceptable physical properties.
Conclusions:
- A sustainable and effective strategy for developing multifunctional and durable flame-retardant silk textiles was established.
- The combination of tannic acid, soy protein isolate, and ferrous sulfate offers a promising approach for high-performance functional fabrics.
- This method provides a viable pathway for eco-friendly textile finishing with enhanced safety and hygiene features.
