Scalable, eco-friendly and simple strategy for nano-functionalization of textiles using immobilized copper-based nanoparticles

Nano-functionalization of textiles has been developed for various applications that should be adapted to reduce the utilization of chemicals, energy, processing steps and time of the finishing in view of the ecological and economical restrictions. In the current study, for the first time, we introduce an eco-friendly, feasible and facile approach for producing synthetic or natural fabrics with multi-functional properties via green assembling of copper-based nanoparticles in one single step without the use of further chemicals or external physical apparatuses. Copper acetate was only used as a metal salt with textile substrate as a template at boil without using other chemicals. X-ray diffraction analysis, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, mapping, field-emission scanning electron microscope images, Fourier transform infrared spectra and UV–Vis spectrum were proved the formation of copper or copper oxide nanoparticles on the textile substrates. The treated fabrics indicated very good properties regarding antibacterial, self-cleaning, photocatalytic, UV protection and coloring effect with enhanced mechanical properties. Finally, this novel method can be applied as a cleaner, economic and large-scale strategy for nano-functionalization of textiles and polymers based on copper/copper oxide nanoparticles in the related industries.