One-sided surface modification of cellulose fabric by printing a modified TEMPO-mediated oxidant

• Modification of lyocell fabric was obtained by printing TEMPO-mediated oxidant.
• One-sided localisation of carboxylic groups was achieved by printing the oxidant.
• Formation of oxidised groups was demonstrated by methylene blue sorption.
• The use of a buffered solution simplifies pH control during oxidation.
• Sorption properties were modified on one side by printing.

One-sided surface oxidation of lyocell type cellulose fabric can be achieved by use of a modified TEMPO-mediated oxidation system. A borate-based buffer was used to maintain stable pH conditions and screen printing was applied to achieve oxidation on the fabric surface only. To formulate an applicable procedure, the TEMPO/NaBr/NaOCl system was split into two treatment steps: firstly, the fabric was impregnated with a buffered TEMPO/NaBr solution and dried, then a thickened NaOCl paste was printed on the fabric. FTIR-ATR spectra and methylene blue sorption experiments demonstrated successful modification on the printed side of the fabric. Substantial increases in carboxylic group content and water retention value were observed. The higher concentration of carboxylic groups on the fabric surface also led to a localised increase in binding capacity for Ca2+-ions. This new concept permits controlled oxidation of cellulose surfaces by printing techniques.

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