Development of photoluminescent viscose fibers integrated with polymer containing lanthanide‐doped phosphor

Abstract Smart clothing refers to textiles that can sense an external stimulus by changing their physical properties such as colorimetric and fluorescent fabrics. The pad‐dry‐curing coloration approach was used to apply a luminous and hydrophobic composite coating onto cellulose‐based materials. This novel method includes incorporating phosphor nanoparticles made from lanthanide‐doped strontium aluminum oxide (LSAO) into room temperature vulcanizing silicone rubber (RTV). The LSAO nano‐sized particles (3–8 nm) must be mixed evenly throughout RTV without aggregation to allow for the formation of a colorless layer onto viscose surface. Pad‐dry‐curing the film onto viscose cloth worked well at room temperature. The contact angles of the luminous fibers enhanced from 138.6° to 158.2° as the LSAO ratio increased. The antimicrobial and ultraviolet (UV) protection of the LSAO‐finished viscose were investigated. The transparent fluorescent film on viscose surface was excited at 367 nm to display an emission peak at 518 nm. According to CIE Lab coordinates and luminescence analyses, the fluorescent viscose fibers showed various colors, including white under visible light, intense green beneath UV device, and greenish‐yellow under darkness. The comfort properties of the LSAO‐finished viscose were assessed by measuring their bend length and permeability to air. Transmission electron microscopic analysis of LSAO nanoparticles was explored. Energy dispersive x‐ray, x‐ray fluorescence, and scanning electron microscopy were utilized to describe the spectroscopic outcomes of the treated textiles. The colorfastness of the LSAO‐finished viscose fabrics was examined. The coated fabrics exhibited a non‐fatigable reversible luminous photochromism in response to UV illumination. Research Highlights Multifunctional LSAO@RTV nanocomposite was pad‐dry‐cured onto viscose textile. Photochromism to green under UV light and greenish‐yellow in the dark was detected. Efficient antimicrobial, UV protective, and superhydrophobic activity were observed. The antimicrobial properties were maintained for 24 washing cycles. Pad‐dry‐cured viscose showed good comfortability and photostability.