Preparation of Multi-Functional Polyester Fabrics with the Use of a New Organo-Clay Nanopigment in High Temperature/High Pressure Condition

For the first time, the ability of dyeing the montmorillonite (Mt) mineral with reactive dye aiming to prepare a new nanopigment was investigated and the optimum conditions were determined. The prepared nanopigment was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectra (FTIR), transmission electron microscope (TEM), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), reflectance spectrophotometer (RS) and colorimetry analyses. The results showed that the dye molecules were attached to the hydroxyl groups of Mt plates through a covalent linkage. Also, the BET surface area values slightly increased after the dyeing process due to the separation of Mt plates and the reduction of particle size because of penetration of dye molecules among the plates. Colorimetry analysis revealed that the intercalation of dye molecules was depended on dye concentration and number of reactive sites on the Mt surface. The prepared nanopigment was used for dyeing the polyester fabric in high pressure and temperature conditions. The SEM, colorimetry, electromagnetic reflectance, flammability, and TGA tests were performed to investigate the properties of fabrics. Results indicated that intercalation of Mt nanopigment in the polyester fiber enhances the flame retardant, electromagnetic reflection and breathability of fabrics. Also, the optimum amount of nanopigment in the dyeing process was reported. It can be suggested that the prepared fabric can be a good candidate for utilizing in military and electronic aspects.