Fabrication of multifunctional silk fabrics via one step in-situ synthesis of ZnO

In this study, superhydrophobic and UV-blocking silk fabrics are fabricated via one-step in-situ synthesis of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods on silk fabrics and further n-octadecanethiol (ODT) modification process. The surface composition, morphology, and wettability of modified silk fabrics are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and water contact angle (WCA). The as-prepared silk fabric exhibits superhydrophobic performance (WCA>150°) and excellent anti-UV ability (UPF over 50). The obtained superhydrophobic surface shows excellent mechanical and chemical stability. The as-prepared multifunctional silk fabrics will be used in advanced protective textiles and self-cleaning fields.Graphical abstract
Source: Materials Letters - Category: Materials Science Source Type: research