Graphene oxide/waterborne polyurethane composites for fine pattern fabrication and ultrastrong ultraviolet protection cotton fabric via screen printing

This work reported the preparation and application of graphene oxide (GO)/waterborne polyurethane (WPU) composite paste. The rheological properties of GO/WPU composite paste which were strongly affecting the printing pattern definition of printed patterns were analyzed. The influences of reduced GO (RGO)/WPU composite paste printed fabrics with various GO contents on UV protection factor (UPF) values and UV transmittance were investigated. The color performance and fastness of RGO/WPU composite paste printed fabrics were evaluated. GO/WPU composite paste showed as shear thinning behavior or pseudo-plastic characterization. GO/WPU 0.9% composite paste possessed the lowest printing viscosity index (PVI) and excellent printing definition. In terms of UV protection, RGO/WPU composite paste printed fabrics with low GO loading still exhibited great UV protection ability, and super higher UPF value (7 5 7) was obtained at RGO/WPU 1.2% composite paste printed fabric. The K/S values of RGO/WPU composite paste printed fabrics were gradually increased with the increase of GO content. Although dry and wet rubbing fastness decreased with the increase of GO content, but they all exhibited excellent washing fastness.