Enhancement of antimicrobial and UV resistant properties of aramid III fiber through surface coating

Aramid III fiber is a typical high-performance fiber with the advantages of high strength and high modulus, as well as excellent thermal stability, which has been extensively applied in both civil and military fields. However, microbial proliferation and UV irradiation can reduce its mechanical properties and the subsequent service life. Herein, a novel antimicrobial and UV-resistant aramid III fiber was prepared by constructing a PHMG-grafted polydopamine (PDA) on its surface, and the resultant aramid III fiber exhibited excellent bacterial ability against common bacteria and fungi with >99 % sterilization rate, which is stable after washing, high and low temperature treatment, acid and alkaline treatment. In addition, the results of UV irradiation test showed that the coating could enhance the UV resistance of aramid fiber, and after 14 days of UV irradiation, compared to the modified fiber, the original fiber underwent 2.2 times strength loss rate. This research provides a simple method for preparing antimicrobial and UV-resistant aramid III fiber, which is conducive to prolonged its service life.