Preparation of Antibacterial and UV-Protective Cotton through Coating with TiO2-Modified Chitosan-Based Schiff Bases

Textiles with antibacterial and antiultraviolet properties have gained significant attention because of their ability to protect the human body. This study presents the design and synthesis of a Schiff base for chitosan modified with salicylaldehyde and titanium dioxide (SCSB-Si-TiO2). SCSB-Si-TiO2 was coated onto cotton fabrics by using a layer-by-layer self-assembly method, resulting in functional cotton fabrics (SCSB-Si-TiO2/cotton) with excellent antibacterial and antiultraviolet properties. This functional textile demonstrated excellent antibacterial effects with inhibition rates of 95.22% against Escherichia coli and 98.99% against Staphylococcus aureus. Moreover, SCSB-Si-TiO2/cotton exhibited outstanding antiultraviolet characteristics, with a ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) value of 110.9, and maintained a UPF value above 82 even after 25 washing cycles. Additionally, SCSB-Si-TiO2/cotton exhibited good hydrophobicity with a water contact angle of 123.6°. The breathability of SCSB-Si-TiO2/cotton decreased slightly, and its tensile strength increased, which was sufficient to meet daily life requirements. This study presents an approach to the development of multifunctional textiles.