Imparting Durable Ultraviolet Protection to Polyamide 6 Fabric

Deterioration of polyamide 6 fabrics upon exposure to ultraviolet radiation for a long time is an acute dilemma. Imparting ultraviolet protection to polyamide fabrics is of prime importance from the performance and economic point of views. In this investigation, polyamide 6 fabrics were modified with an environmentally friendly product (sericin) in presence or absence of crosslinking agents; namely citric acid or epichlorohydrin using pad-dry-cure technique. Topographical investigation of the used sericin powder was conducted using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The morphological structure of treated as well as untreated fabrics was investigated using high resolution field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM). The alteration in some physico-mechanical characteristics of the treated polyamide 6 fabrics; Viz. bending stiffness, burst test, degree of yellowness, and moisture regain were assessed. The treated polyamide fabrics were dyed with acid and reactive dyestuffs. The colour strength and washing fastness for dyed fabrics with both acid and reactive dyes were assessed. The photo-protection against UV light of the said fabrics were evaluated. The treated fabric exhibited excellent UV protection without significant discrepancy in their inherent physico-mechanical properties.