Colorful and antibacterial nylon fabric via in-situ biosynthesis of chitosan mediated nanosilver

Abstract

Herein, functionalization of nylon fabric surfaces in terms of excellent coloration and antibacterial properties were developed by in-situ synthesis of chitosan mediated silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). No toxic chemicals were used to ensure eco-friendly conditions. The variation of colors (nearly red, yellow, and blue) was achieved by only regulating precursor concentration and utilization of ascorbic acid. Functionalized nylon fabrics were then characterized by investigating surface morphology, elemental mapping, metal composition, and chemical linkage among compositing components. Results exposed that the particles are within the nano-range size, spherical in shapes, homogenously dispersed over the surfaces, and firmly attached to the nylon fiber by molecular force or double networking properties of chitosan. Color characteristics demonstrate a uniform shade due to the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) properties of AgNPs with brilliant colorfastness and color strength (K/S). The antibacterial properties are found to be significant, with more than 88% bacterial reduction rate against both the gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria even after 20 washing cycles. Overall, this nylon functionalization protocol without using traditional chemicals like crosslinkers, binders, or coating agents provides the desired permanent efficiency and safe product.