Novel Nanocoating technology for Functional Textile

Nanoparticles represent an attractive alternative in coating processes due to their functional versatility, including surface, optical, conductive and catalytic properties. However, current processes of coating textile products with nanoparticles results in rapid loss of the nanoparticles during laundering or use, leading to a significant decrease in product durability and functionality and increase in environmental risks. In addition, these processes are limited by the customized chemistry for each type of textile and nanoparticle. Both limitations mainly depend on how the nanoparticles are incorporated into the fabrics. Here we offer the development of new nanocomposite textiles using a proprietary thermal crescoating technology, where a variety of metal, metal oxide and metalloid nanoparticles can be directly grown into the bulk and throughout any type of textile or fibers, in a way that produces a stable nanocomposite with enhanced functionality, extended durability, and minimal impact on the environment. Such performance will be achieved using a cost-effective and scalable finishing process with no use of chemicals, other than the metal salts used to make the nanoparticles. The proposed process will be demonstrated by growing 11 different nanoparticles on a variety of fabrics to produce anti-microbial, fire-retardant and UV protection functional textiles.