UV protection finishing of textiles using ZnO nanoparticles

The synthesis and characterization of nanosized zinc oxide particles and their application on cotton and polyester/cotton fabrics have been studied for the protection against UV radiation. The nanoparticles are produced in different conditions of temperature (90 degrees or 150 degrees C) and reaction medium (water or 1,2-ethanediol). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray powder diffractometry have been used to characterize the nanoparticles composition as well as their shape, size and crystallinity. The effectiveness of the treatment is assessed using the standardized tests, such as UV-Vis spectrophotometry and the calculation of the ultraviolet protection factor both before and after washing of the treated samples. It is found that the performance of ZnO nanoparticles as UV-absorbers can be efficiently transferred to fabric materials through the application of ZnO nanoparticles. The UV tests indicate a significant improvement in the UV absorbing activity in the ZnO-treated fabrics.