Preparation of electromagnetic reflective wool using nano-ZrO2/citric acid as inorganic/organic hybrid coating

Nano-ZrO2 particles were stabilized on wool surface using citric acid (CA) as a crosslinking agent and sodium hypophosphite (SHP) as a catalyst under UV irradiation. The influence of the amount of nano-ZrO2 on the performance of wool fiber was investigated by the use of Fourier transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR), horizontal flammability apparatus (HFA), scanning electron microscope (SEM), water contact angle tester (WCA), reflectance spectrophotometer (RS) and electromagnetic transition instrument (ETI). The possible interactions between nano-zirconia particles, cross-linking agent and wool free radicals were elucidated by the FTIR spectroscopy. Results indicated that the stabilized nano-zirconia enhances the flame retardancy and electromagnetic reflection of wool.