Nanoparticles incorporated graphene-based durable cotton fabrics

Abstract Graphene coated fabrics with incorporated nanoparticles can be smart textiles for multiple applications. The presence of an ample amount of oxygen-bearing functional groups on the surface can make the cotton fabric more suitable for modifications and functionalization. Here, we report the synthesis of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) coated-copper (Cu)/silver (Ag) nanoparticle incorporated cotton fabrics with excellent washing durability by ensuring strong bonding among graphene surface-cotton and nanoparticles. In our procedure, graphene oxide (GO) coating on the cotton fabric was followed by the incorporation of Cu/Ag nanoparticles via dip-coating approach using 3-glycidyloxypropyl trimethoxy silane as a coupling agent. Furthermore, the GO was reduced in the presence of sodium dithionite followed by heating at 180 °C under vacuum. The RGO coated and Cu/Ag incorporated cotton fabric samples exhibited improved hydrophobicity than pure cotton. Cotton-RGO-Cu showed remarkably lower surface resistance (6.42 KΩ/sq), better UV protection factor (46.45), and Joule heating capability as compared to Cotton-RGO-Ag and only Cotton-RGO. Moreover, the Cotton-RGO-Cu retained its resistance of 16.70 KΩ/sq after 20 wash cycles. Overall, the synergetic impact of enhanced hydrophobicity, high UV protectivity, low surface resistance, and thermal stability, have made the Cotton-RGO-Cu fabric suitable for smart textile and protective clothing.