ARS | Publication request: Flame retardant polymer-clay nanocoatings on cotton textile substrates using a newly developed, continuous layer-by-layer deposition process

Submitted to: American Chemical Society National Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: December 20, 2012
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Cotton’s exceptional softness, breathability, and absorbency have made it America’s best selling textile fiber; however, cotton textiles are generally more combustible than most synthetic fabrics. In this study, a continuous layer-by-layer self-assembly technique was used to deposit polymer-clay nanocoatings on cotton fabrics to enhance their flame retardancy. Alternating layers of positively charged branched polyethylenimine (BPEI) with urea and diammoium phosphate and negatively charged clay nanoparticles were continuously applied to the fabrics in single process without rinsing. The morphology and flame retardant properties of the coated fabrics were characterized using SEM and a variety of flammability tests. The treated fabrics exhibited improved thermal stability, as evidenced by an increased ignition time and lower heat release rate. The results of this study show that flame retardant nanocoatings can readily be applied to textile fabrics using a continuous process that is ideal for commercial and industrial applications.