Development of hybrid cotton/hydrogel yarns with improved absorption properties for biomedical applications

• Novel textile based on natural fibres and superabsorbent hydrogels was developed.
• The swelling ratio and the durability to washings were evaluated.
• The effect of the choice of the hydrogel was studied.
• The effects of additional crosslinking on hydrogel and fabrics were evaluated.
• The optimized parameters determined durable and improved absorption properties.

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, is an overlooked and potentially disabling symptom, which is often seen in social anxiety disorder. In this work an innovative advanced textile material was developed for application in the management of excessive sweating, preparing a drying yarn providing improved comfort. Hybrid cotton/hydrogel yarns were obtained by combining cotton with superabsorbent hydrogels through an optimization study focused on the achievement of the most promising product in terms of absorption properties and resistance to washings. Swelling and washing tests were performed using different hydrogels, and the effect of an additional crosslinking on the materials was also evaluated by testing different solutions containing Al3 + and Ca2 + ions. Scanning electron microscopy and infrared spectroscopy analyses were adopted to characterize morphology and chemical structure of the hydrogels undergoing different production processes. The biocompatibility of the hybrid fabrics was demonstrated by 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide colorimetric assay (MTT) through the extract method.

Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide