Antioxidant and hydrophobic Cotton fabric resisting accelerated ageing

Antioxidant fabrics are excellent shields against oxidative damage by free radicals and can be used in clothing, packaging, cosmetics and preservation. In this study, we developed antioxidant and hydrophobic cotton fabrics using ecofriendly materials and processes. The fabrics were functionalized with a double layer coating. Pristine cotton fabrics were coated with a food grade antioxidant (butylated hydroxytoluene, BHT) incorporated biodegradable polyester (polycaprolactone, PCL). This coating was shielded with an acetoxy functional biocompatible hydrophobic silicone coating. The hydrophobic shielding prevented potential loss of the antioxidant due to interaction with water or ambient humidity over time. Coated fabrics were exposed to extreme peroxidative (concentrated H2O2) and UV light damage conditions using an ad hoc protocol for simulating decades of atmospheric ageing. Chemical changes on the cotton surface and potential oxidation and preventive mechanisms were studied using spectroscopy. Treated fabrics also displayed very low water vapor uptake and remained breathable with no visible color change. Mechanical properties of the original fabric were preserved after the treatment.