Pelletization of MOFs for Textile Applications

Engineered materials capable of removing chemical-warfare agents (CWAs) and toxic industrial chemicals (TICs) are highly desirable for protective textile applications. TDA is proposing to develop new engineered beads and incorporate them into fabric materials that can self-detoxify CWAs or TICs using metal−organic framework (MOF) materials. In the Phase I project, we carried out proof-of-concept experiments to demonstrate the viability of the preparing the MOF materials into spherical beads that are between 100-500 μm and coated them onto the fabrics. The engineered MOF beads and the fabric samples were subjected to functionality testing to assess their performance, for gas adsorption and detoxification of simulants. Finally, we carried out an engineering analysis to estimate the cost of the microspheres and fabrics as a function of production volume. In Phase II we propose to fully optimize the bead production process to granulate the MOF materials into spherical beads and incorporate them into the textiles without damaging the starting material. In the Phase II project, we will test the fully optimized beads and the MOF integrated fabrics to assess their performance, for gas adsorption and detoxification of simulants. Fabric samples will be subjected to rigorous testing to assess their performance, as well as processability and endurance. Finally, we will develop manufacturing and carry out a high-fidelity engineering analysis to estimate the cost of the microspheres and fabrics as a function of production volume.