Functionalization of PET fabric via silicone based organic–inorganic hybrid coating

In this paper, silica dioxide nanoparticles (SiO 2 ) were synthesized and functionalized with n -octadecyltriethoxysilane (OD) through a modified Stöber method for the preparation of organic–inorganic hybrid micro-nanoparticles. Organic–inorganic hybrid micro-nanoparticles were applied onto the polyester (PET) fabric via a conventional “dipping–drying” process for the fluoro-free water-repellent textile materials. The coated PET fabric surface showed micro/nano-structures and exhibited hydrophobic behavior with water contact angle of 141°. The surface morphologies, surface chemical composition and contact angles of the coated fabrics surface were measured. Furthermore, the dynamic hydrophobic behavior of water droplet impact on the fabric was investigated. By analyzing the energy change, D(t)/D 0 value and H(t)/D 0 value during water droplet impact were measured. The water droplet showed an obvious effect of the dynamic rebound behavior on the coated fabric surface, further confirming that the coated PET fabric had hydrophobicity. After the rubbing and washing durability, mechanical and chemical stability treatment, the coated PET fabrics still maintained high hydrophobicity and displayed good water-repellent durability. Last but not least, PET hydrophobic fabrics exhibited excellent self-cleaning properties with dyes on the fabric surface.