SYNTHESIS, CHARACTERIZATION AND APPLICATION OF SILICA NANOPARTICLES ON COTTON FABRICS FOR ENHANCED FLAME RETARDANCY AND HYDROPHILICITY

The sol-gel method was employed to synthesize silica nanoparticles on cotton fabric using two precursors: tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) and sodium silicate, under acidic and basic conditions, in order to compare their effects on the fabrics’ properties. This method aimed to simplify the synthesis process, thereby reducing the number of steps and associated costs. Additionally, the physical and chemical properties of the treated fabrics were studied. Various analytical techniques were used to evaluate the properties, including the water drop test, X-ray diffraction (XRD), inductively coupled plasma (ICP), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The flame-retardant properties were also investigated through the char yield method. Morphological analysis showed that the nanoparticles were spherical, and the acidity or alkalinity of the medium influenced particle formation. The use of acid or base as a catalyst affected nanoparticle formation. XRD patterns revealed typical broad peaks, indicating the amorphous nature of the synthesized nanoparticles. ICP analysis confirmed the stability of nanoparticles on the fabrics after washing. In situ synthesis of SiO2 nanoparticles significantly enhanced the fabric's flame retardant properties, although the residual char increased. The water drop test demonstrated an improvement in the fabric's hydrophilic properties. The mechanical properties of the treated fabrics were examined and the properties were generally improved.