Development of multifunctional cotton fabrics using difunctional polysiloxanes

Cotton fabrics were modified with difunctional polysiloxanes to impart biocidal and hydrophobic properties. The modification was performed in two steps, using tetraethoxysilane in the first step, and then polysiloxanes having in their structure both alkoxy groups and long-chain quaternary ammonium salts in the second step. The modified fabrics were tested for the action of a mixture of five mold species that most often cause decomposition of cellulose. The hydrophobicity was determined by measuring the water contact angle. Moreover, samples were evaluated by SEM, FTIR Spectra and elemental analysis. Results showed that multifunctional fabrics were obtained with both biocidal and hydrophobic properties that are resistant to washing. All modified samples showed protection against mold growth on level 2 and a water contact angle up to 140°. The modification does not cause any apparent changes such as stiffening, color changes, or decrease in mechanical properties.