Characteristics of cotton fabric modified with chitosan (CS)/cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) nanocomposites

The chitosan (CS)/cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) (0, 0.2. 0.5, 0.8 and 1 wt%) nanocomposites were applied as modifier, and then deposited on the surface of cotton fabric via a pad-dry-cure method. The morphology, mechanical, hydrophilicity and ultraviolet (UV)-blocking properties of prepared fabrics were carefully investigated. The results showed that CS/CNC could obviously enhance the UV-blocking property of cotton fabric. CS/CNC0.5 fabric exhibited the most excellent UV-blocking property as well as good washing durability after 30 times water laundering, indicating CS/CNC could be used as efficient and durable UV blocker for cotton fabric. In addition, CS/CNC also can increase the mechanical property of cotton fabric; while decrease the hydrophilicity of cotton fabric.